DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENT AND SCHOLAR SERVICES #00086180

International Student and Scholar Services

The Director of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all aspects of international student and scholar support at Missouri University of Science and Technology. This role is responsible for fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and globally engaged campus environment through comprehensive services and programming for prospective and current international students, scholars, and sponsored students. The Director also plays a key role in advancing the university's internationalization efforts and global diversity initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Oversight

• Lead the ISSS unit, ensuring seamless delivery of services including immigration advising, orientation, employment and training programs, cultural programming, and sponsored student support
• Serve as the primary campus liaison for all matters related to international students and scholars
• Collaborate with university leadership to align ISSS goals with institutional priorities and enrollment strategies
• Develop and implement short- and long-term strategic plans to support international student recruitment, retention, and success

Operational Management

• Supervise daily operations and staff, including recruitment, training, coaching, and performance evaluation
• Serve as the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) of the university's F-1 international student program and ensure student and university compliance with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations
• Serve as Responsible Office (RO) of the university's J-1 Exchange Visitor Program by providing advising and support to students and scholars in all J-1 Exchange Visitor categories.
  Maintain accurate individual immigration records in the DHS Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and in Missouri S&T's internal immigration case management system
• Ensure institutional compliance with all federal reporting requirements related to nonimmigrant students and scholars, including but not limited to SEVIS alerts, Form I-17 updates, SEVP recertification, annual verification, and timely PDSO/RO role updates

Technology & Systems

• Oversee the use of key platforms such as PeopleSoft, SEVIS, Slate, Terra Dotta, and other systems to ensure efficient and compliant service delivery
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical and operational issues across platforms
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance operational effectiveness and student experience

Campus & Community Engagement

• Collaborate with departments such as Admissions, Graduate Education, Registrar, Student Success, and academic units to support international student success
• Represent ISSS on university committees and contribute to campus-wide initiatives related to global engagement, compliance, and student retention
• Lead communication and marketing efforts, including website content, social media, and outreach strategies
• Promote intercultural understanding and global awareness through campus programming and partnerships

Budget & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the ISSS budget, ensuring responsible use of resources
• Track and analyze data to inform decision-making and report outcomes
• Advocate for funding and resources to enhance international student services and programming

Programming & Student Support

• Coordinate pre-arrival, orientation, and cultural adjustment programs for international students and scholars
• Provide support for international faculty, staff, and dependents as needed
• Promote a philosophy of enrollment management and student retention through proactive advising and engagement
• Provide evening and weekend support as needed for events and critical services
  

• A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 6 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary
• Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to meet federal requirements for SEVIS access.

• Master's degree in international education, higher education administration, or a related field strongly preferred
• At least four years of administrative experience, including a minimum of three years in a supervisory role
• Experience living, studying, or working abroad
• Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. immigration regulations and compliance requirements for F and J visa programs
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience with international student advising, SEVIS, and related technologies (e.g., Terra Dotta, Slate)
  

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $68,200 to $75,000 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS 12
University Title: DIRECTOR I STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.