Orientation Leader

Department Overview

Our mission at the Office of Student Transition and Family Engagement is to understand and improve students' first year at UW‑Madison. We are the campus leader and primary resource on the subject of student transition to the campus community. OSTFE supports students in self‑reflection and active learning inside and outside of the classroom as they create the foundation for their Wisconsin Experience.

We facilitate this process through a long‑term inclusive strategy of intentional programming, on‑going services, communication, and collaboration with faculty & staff.

03/21/2026

August to September 2026

Partially Remote

Minimum: 30 | Maximum: 40

During the spring semester after first day, 20 hours total throughout the semester. During the summer, SOAR Orientation Leaders can expect to work around 40 hours per week between the hours of 7 am to 9 pm.

• Required 2 day‑long trainings on March 21 and April 18th (New OLs will work approximately 3‑5 shifts per week after hire in Spring 2026 semester for the OSTFE office)

• Required May Training: 40 hours/week from May 14‑May 28 (off May 25, Memorial Day)

• Average 35‑40 hours/week starting May 29‑August 14th

Minimum: $15.00 | Maximum: $15.00

30

• Enrolled as a full‑time, undergraduate UW‑Madison student through Fall 2026 semester. (Graduating seniors are not eligible for this position)
• Current residence is a valid, United States address
• Ability to work in‑person for the full duration of the position throughout the summer. Second jobs, a summer class or other commitments cannot conflict with job duties. They must be disclosed and approved by a supervisor prior to accepting the employment offer
• Must be in good academic and non‑academic standing with the University at the time of application, hire, start of employment, and through the duration of employment. All non‑academic misconduct will be reviewed for employment consideration
• Comfortable with frequent and infrequent movement‑ i.e. leading students between locations, moving across campus, and/or being in one area during a designated time
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds

• Strong written, verbal, and public speaking communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities; punctual and detail‑oriented
• Ability to maintain professionalism and positivity in a high‑energy, fast‑paced environment
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills; able to build positive relationships with interns, peers, and professional staff
• Skilled at engaging with diverse populations and fostering an inclusive environment
• Adaptable and flexible; able to respond effectively to changing circumstances and on‑the‑spot adjustments
• Committed to supporting new students and families through their transition to college life
• Capable of balancing independent work with contributing to a team‑oriented atmosphere
• Self‑driven learner who uses resources effectively, asks thoughtful questions, and seeks innovative solutions
• Problem‑solving and prioritization skills to ensure efficient use of time and resources
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude while balancing work requirements with a fun, team‑focused environment

• Provide exceptional customer service to students and families before, during, and after their SOAR experience, serving as a knowledgeable resource on UW–Madison’s academic and campus culture
• Answer emails and phone calls from students and their families
• Assist with SOAR reservations and updates in the reservation system
• Greet and check in participants as the first point of contact
• Support daily program logistics, including check‑in, way finding, delivering instructions, preparing SOAR materials, and maintaining inventory of supplies
• Represent OSTFE values and mission as a front desk resource and through positive, professional interactions in a fast‑paced environment
• Facilitate small‑group discussions (15–25 students), lead…