Title: Associate Director for New Student Orientation, Transitions, & Family Programs

Executive Area: Student Affairs & Campus Life

College/School/MBU: Dean of Students

Department: New Student & Families

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the Associate Dean of Students and Director of New Student Orientation, Transitions, and Family Programs, the Associate Director performs a variety of functions and responsibilities related to the delivery of student services with primary responsibility for management and implementation of the new student orientation, transitions, and family programs for undergraduate students and their families. 

Essential Functions

Assists in the management of the New Student Orientation, Transitions, and Family Programs Office and responsible for the day-to-day oversight of office operations including triaging of calls and email communication. 

Assists in the development, implementation and evaluation of policies, procedures, and efforts related to New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs. 

Coordinates and leads the development and implementation of comprehensive transition programs for multiple populations in the Fall and Spring including Next for the U, Guide to the U, Ready for the U, and Welcome to the U. 

Directly supervises Assistant Directors for New Student Orientation, Transition and Family Programs and 2-3 graduate interns and indirectly supervises 60-75 student employees.  Manages the recruitment, hiring, training and evaluation of graduate and undergraduate staff. 

Responsible for managing all technical aspects of New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs including, but not limited to, managing all registration functions, coordinating online programs and initiatives. 

Responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive communications and publication plan for New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs. 

Stays abreast of legislation, legal precedent, and best practices as they relate to new student orientation and transition programs and takes steps to ensure policy and procedures are updated accordingly. 

Supports the development and implementation of a comprehensive assessment plan for New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs and services. Uses data and best practice to develop and implement programs and services for the campus community and provides support, consultation, and training for faculty, staff, students, and families.

Assists in the maintenance of New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs records including, but not limited to, records of recruitment strategies, training schedules and materials, program schedules and materials, and assessment projects. 

Maintains effective partnerships with key departments including, but not limited to, Student Affairs and Campus Life departments, Administration and Finance, Academic Affairs including Colleges and Departments, University Relations, and Enrollment Management. 

Supports the management of the departmental office budget including completing purchasing and vendor agreements. 

Represents New Student Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs, Dean of Students Office, and Dean of Students Collaborative on university committees. 

Conducts programs and trainings and may assist in transporting materials and supplies.

Other Functions

Performs related duties as assigned or required. Understands responsibilities with respect to Title IX, Clery and other compliance requirements.  

Demonstrates capacity, skill, and willingness to engage students and contribute to student success.  

Understands responsibilities with respect to conflicts of interest and behaves in ways consistent both with law and with university policy.  

Contributes toward creating a positive and respectful workplace. Uses access to sensitive and/or not yet public university related information only in the performance of the responsibilities of position and exercises care to prevent unnecessary disclosure to others. 

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s Degree.

Four (4) years of related work experience including but limited to experience with developing, coordinating and/or working recruitment, orientation, and marketing related programs/events.  

Demonstrated ability and experience in developing and maintaining positive, collaborative relationships with internal and external constituencies. 

Experience using a web-based software platform to initiate, track, and record work. 

Demonstrated computer skills including word processing, Excel and web-based applications. 

Demonstrated experience working with diverse populations and in developing inclusive communities and work teams. 

Demonstrated experience creating and delivering trainings, workshops, and presentations.  

Excellent communication (oral and written) and presentation skills. 

Additional Details

Required to work some nights and weekends during orientation and Transitions periods as well as other Campus Events, as needed. 

This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval. 

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an indoor university environment and involves lifting and transporting materials or equipment and general physical activity, including prolonged standing, walking, or assuming low postures.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

M-F 8:30am - 5:00 pm

Required to work some nights and weekends during orientation and Transitions periods as well as other Campus Events, as needed.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 29

Associated Pay Grade: 

Hourly Rate: 

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Upload your resume, along with your completed application. Our team will check references at the final stage of the interview process. Please be prepared to provide contact information for at least three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.