Specialist, F-1 Student and Designated School Official (DSO)

Job Vacancy Announcement
Position Information
Position Title
Specialist, F-1 Student and Designated School Official (DSO)
Position Type
Staff
Department
RECORDS AND REGISTRATION
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Union/Non Union
Union
Full Time or Part Time
Full Time
Grade
11
Salary Range
Hiring Salary Range
$51,851-57,036/Annually
Fixed Term/Tenure Track (Faculty Only)
Regular or Temporary
Regular
Job Description Summary
Under the direction of the Registrar, the International Student (F-1) Specialist serves as the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) for Prince George's Community College's participation in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The PDSO manages the international F-1 program by providing assistance for all parties with the admission process, ensuring all F-1 students are in compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in addition to the college by reporting to SEVP
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• One to two years of college credit (30 credit hours are equivalent to one year) or related certification
• Three years of related experience
• Experience working with international students and broad knowledge of immigration regulations
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Certification by the Student Exchange Visitor's Program associated with The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) preferred.

Criteria
CRITERIA: The following criteria, which are not the sole criteria used in the final hiring decision, will be used to review the applications of those persons who meet the stated minimum qualifications and to select those qualified applicants who will be interviewed. Other information and observations made during the interview process may be considered in the selection process. A Resume/CV and cover letter are required with the application. Please ensure that your documents address the criteria listed below for this position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Serve as the Primary Designated School Official with a focus of matriculation, retention and student success
• Assist all groups of international F-1 students, dependents and sponsors with the application process via email, phone and in-person, which includes providing initial guidance for the Department of State (DOS), upon approval
• Manage the International Group email proxy
• Evaluate all applications, determine eligibility and share the status with the student
• Generate admission documents, acceptance letter and the Form I-20
• Process various program related requests, upon clearance
• Advise F-1 students on practical training, the initial process to obtain a driver's license, social security number, and renewal of passport/visa
• Provide documentation for agencies to support F-1 student requests
• Maintain F-1 student records and update federal records
• Remain informed of federal regulations for F-1 students by SEVP notifications, attending trainings and any conferences
• Report to SEVP using the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System/ database (SEVIS) in accordance with regulations
• Complete the Form I-17 recertification process
• Develop and update processes, standard operating procedures and publications
• Provide F-1 student data and produce reports
• Function as a liaison of the college with SEVP, USCIS, DOS and DHS
• Collaborate with the SEVP Field Representative and respectable colleagues on requirements and protocols for F-1 students
• Protect the privacy of F-1 student information
• Perform other related duties such as, assisting J-1 (Au Pairs) visa holders with the enrollment process

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• F-1 student federal regulations and procedures
• High comfort level of relevant computer software and the SEVIS database
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Assist students and collaborate with staff, faculty, partners, and other institutions while fostering positive relationships
• Manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work well under pressure, strict deadlines and time constraints
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal skills and good judgement
• Strong analytical and proofreading skills
• Solid research and organizational skills
• Project a professional image and demeanor at all times
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Excellent written and interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively collaborate with others.

Job Requirements
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Must have the use of sensory skills in order to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public through the use of the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle or feel objects and controls. Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment, such as, but not limited to, a personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine. No significant climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written standard English.
• As required by the 1986 Immigration Act, be prepared to present acceptable documentation showing your identity and that you are a U.S. citizen or an alien who is authorized to work.
• A background investigation will be conducted prior to the offer of employment. A signed authorization for the release of personal information will be required if selected for an interview.

Is Background Check Required?
Yes
Is the incumbent responsible for working with minor children or directly engaging with minor children on campus?
No
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
PGCC209911/12
Open Date
01/09/2024
Close Date
01/30/2024
Open Until Filled
No
Background Check Statement
Prince George's Community College is committed to providing a safe campus community. PGCC conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, education verification, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application Status; you will receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application, upon which time no further communication occurs unless selected for an interview or the position is filled. If recommended for hire, communication is immediately sent to your references listed on your application. Also, you will receive an email notification from HireRight requesting you to submit authorization to complete a background investigation.