Designated School Official - International Education Specialist

Designated School Official - 1 International Education Specialist

LOCATION: Wayland Baptist University (WBU)

SUPERVISED BY: Primary Designated School Official Senior International Education Specialist

POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field
• Formal training by NAFSA / Association of International Educators or equivalent.
• Prior experience serving as a Designated School Official
• Foreign study abroad or comparable international experience

General

Summary:

The Designated School Official works with a dynamic team at WBU to process immigration benefits on behalf of the international student of Wayland Baptist University. This position works closely with graduate departments and students throughout the academic journey, providing excellent customer service while also ensuring compliance with university and immigration regulations. Successful applicants must possess demonstrable organizational and communication skills and have the ability to multi‑task and prioritize tasks assigned.

Successful applicants must have excellent typing and computer skills especially in Microsoft Excel, as well as experience with various office software and equipment. Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate interpersonal as well as intercultural communication skills due to the diverse population of students this position helps to service. The Designated School Official will be expected to provide high quality services befitting the Christian mission of the university.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide administrative services to international students, and dependents. Assist with implementing yield and retention activities, orientation and other student programming. Ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the enrollment of international students and travel. Reports to the Director of International Student Services (ISS) or designated supervisor.
• Provide administrative services to international students, scholars, and dependents (including, but not limited to, health insurance, nonimmigrant status, social security, and cross‑cultural issues).
• Monitor and stay current on applicable ISS topics including, but not limited to, regulatory updates, Department of Homeland Security guidance, student visa regulations and student support best practices.
• Maintain student files, records and data in accordance with federal, state and university regulations.
• Perform required functions of a Designated School Official in accordance with Department of Homeland Security and Department of State regulations including 8
  
  CFR
  214.2(f), 8
  
  CFR
  214.2(j), 8
  
  CFR
  214.3, 8
  
  CFR 274a, and 22 CFR Chapter I Subchapter G Part 62.
• Determine eligibility for benefits of nonimmigrant status including social security numbers, Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, and Driving Licenses.
• Collaborate with colleagues across campus in providing services and advocacy for international students and initiatives.
• Assist in the preparation of annual reports, audits, on‑site reviews and Student‑Exchange Visitor Program site visits as assigned.
• Assist with the coordination of services for international students, including assisting in the implementation of programming as assigned.
• Participate in department, division, and university special projects as required. Serve on department, division, and university committees as assigned.
• Willing to travel to residencies and work weekends.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Skills and

Competencies:

• Immigration Laws relative to F1, F2, H‑1B, and H4 visa classifications
• Desktop software (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite);
  Jenzabar, OnBase, SUNAPSIS and web‑based systems
• Written, verbal, and interpersonal communication and intercultural competence – including the ability to relate to international visitors according to their cultures
• Organizing information and projects, adhering to deadlines
• Work independently and effectively in collaborative groups
• Work collaboratively with university departments and academic units
• Organize and prioritize work with a high degree of self‑initiative and independence
• Analyze and perform in‑depth research on complex immigration issues
• Work independently and as part of a…