Penn State Global is currently seeking a Managing Director for their International Student & Scholar Advising (ISSA) team. This individual will work closely with the Assistant Vice Provost of ISSA to manage immigration advisement services and office operations. The ISSA unit at Penn State Global is responsible for providing immigration compliance advisement and support to approximately 10,000 international students, scholars, and faculty across the university.

In this role, the Managing Director will report to the Assistant Vice Provost of ISSA and serve as a resource to administrators, collaborating with colleagues on campus to advance the Penn State Global strategy. They will provide leadership and expertise on policy matters related to immigration regulation advisement and support services for international populations. Additionally, the Managing Director will lead information system management in relation to Sunapsis and SEVIS, and ensure high levels of customer service for international students and scholars. They will also mentor and support ISSA staff, and work towards achieving the goals of ISSA in alignment with the Penn State Global strategic plan.

The successful candidate for this position should possess exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with staff, faculty, university leadership, and international students, scholars, and faculty. Collaboration within a team environment is crucial. Strong organizational skills, critical thinking/problem solving abilities, attention to detail, and adaptability to changing systems and procedures are also essential qualities.

As a Designated School Official (DSO), authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, this position is responsible for granting immigration benefits and ensuring compliance with federal laws and guidelines regarding international students.

To qualify for this position, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident. A master’s degree in higher education administration, international students, international education, public policy, or a related field, along with 8 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is typically required.

Preferred candidates will have direct experience working with international students, international J-1 scholars, and international faculty/employees. Experience managing user-end production in international case management software such as Sunapsis and SEVIS is also necessary. Additionally, the successful candidate should have experience managing full-time staff members involved in immigration advisement.

Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter as part of their application.

Penn State Global supports flexible work arrangements that align with the needs of the unit and position duties. This particular position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement combining in-person and remote work. Any inquiries regarding flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

At the Pennsylvania State University, diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability are actively promoted and prioritized. The university values individual uniqueness, fosters an inclusive culture, leverages the benefits of diversity, and engages all individuals in order for them to thrive. Inclusion is regarded as a core strength and vital element of the university’s public service mission.

As required by law, Penn State publishes an Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR) in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988. The ASR contains crime statistics and institutional policies related to campus security, including matters such as alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, reporting of crimes, and sexual assault. The ASR can be reviewed online.

Employment with the university will require successful completion of background checks in accordance with university policies.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Individuals with impairments or disabilities that prevent them from using the online application process should contact 814-865-1473 for assistance