Senior Coordinator for Pitzer Programs

Pitzer Programs offer immersive, cohort-based experiences that integrate language instruction, family stays, an interdisciplinary course focused on the program location, and the opportunity to pursue an independent study and/or community-based learning project. Pitzer College currently operates five semester programs and three summer programs.

The Senior Coordinator of Pitzer Programs is expected to take an active role in the day-to-day operations of Pitzer Programs and to assist the Pitzer and non-Pitzer students participating in them. Substantial study abroad program/project management experience, preferably with center-based, faculty-led, or custom study abroad programs, is required. The position also requires strong organizational and multitasking skills to handle multiple activities programs in various locations, as well as prior experience studying, living, or working abroad. Must be available to manage student programming outside of normal business hours and be able to travel internationally and/or domestically, as needed.

Program Administration

• Manage day-to-day operations of Pitzer Programs
• Advise students interested in Pitzer Programs regarding program selection, admissions, and academic planning
• Communicate with Pitzer Program teams based abroad
• Assist with reviewing and selecting students to participate in Pitzer Programs
• Collect and track student forms and requirements and follow up with students as necessary
• Support program faculty and staff in the development and implementation of program courses, activities, materials, and other academic resources
• Ensure that program mission, values, guidelines, policies, and procedures are implemented and maintained

Advising & Student Support

• Meet one-on-one with students interested in study abroad, answer routine questions about all approved study abroad programs at Pitzer, and assist students with additional research as necessary.
• Explain college policies and refer students to the appropriate office or field group as necessary.
• Maintain complete and accurate records in Terra Dotta.
• For Pitzer Programs:
  • Advise students about post-acceptance requirements.
  • Collect and track student forms and requirements and follow up with students as necessary.
  • Provide pre-departure and re-entry support.
  • Advise students on visa application requirements for assigned programs.
  • Support students with questions related to health and wellness planning abroad
  • Counsel returnees on credit transfer, readjustment issues, campus activities, volunteer opportunities, and career options.

Communication & Outreach

• Edit and create marketing materials for Pitzer Programs in print and multimedia and develop and implement internal and external recruitment plans for Pitzer Programs, including information sessions, in-person visits, virtual sessions, panel presentations incorporating Study Abroad Fellows, etc.
• Incorporate social media and networking opportunities into programs as appropriate
• Strengthen relationships with external partners by defining, promoting and marketing benefits of participation in Pitzer Programs

Faculty & Academic Support

• Assist the Director of Pitzer Programs, Pitzer faculty liaisons, and program faculty in the development and implementation of program courses, activities, and materials
• Collect materials and resources for program/curriculum design and content
• Arrange travel and accommodations for faculty and staff site visits and assist with visas
• Assist with developing outreach and training materials for Pitzer Program teams, instructors, Pitzer faculty connected to Pitzer Programs, and other program collaborators

Financial Services

• Support the development of Pitzer Program budgets and accounting of program expenditures, adhering to study abroad financial policies and processes
• Process payments/wire transfers to Pitzer Program suppliers
• Process expense reports, supplier invoices, ad-hoc forms, and other financial transactions in accordance with Pitzer and TCCS requirements

Program Evaluation

• Conduct surveys and focus groups to gather data and recommend program improvements
• Maintain program databases, compile and analyze data, and prepare reports
• Review processes and recommend changes to incorporate best practices as appropriate into administrative, recruitment, marketing, and education components
• Identify service improvement opportunities that better enable programs to achieve goals and objectives and expand student access
• Travel to international program locations, as needed, to participate in site visits to assess program operations and meet with on-site partner universities and organizations.
• Other related duties as assigned

The individual must possess knowledge, skills and ability to be able to successfully perform the essential functions of the position or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions will be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

• Commitment to experiential, language-based, and community-engaged education, in alignment with Pitzer’s integrated learning model for its direct-run study abroad programs
• Cultural empathy, professionalism, and composure in cross-cultural settings
• Ability to manage multiple details while supporting broad educational and institutional goals
• Demonstrated ability to successfully manage international initiatives for a student audience
• Experience teaching, training, or advising students
• Ability to interact effectively with broad constituencies
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to independently prioritize and handle multiple tasks
• Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills, including the ability to speak clearly, professionally, and cordially with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and in a socially aware environment Intermediate knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, email, and database software programs
• Proven problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong work ethic and proven commitment to provide superior customer service, including exercising tact, maturity, and initiative in addressing inquiries and requests
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate the ongoing effectiveness of programs, tools/technology, and the allocation of resources
• Must be able to travel domestically and internationally as needed
• Must be able to work evenings and weekends as needed
• Must have access to reliable and secure computer and internet connection. Must maintain password protection for work files and records and ensure that no one else has access to password and login credentials at remote work sites.
• Must have access to a dedicated and suitable workstation at remote location, including desk or table and supporting, upright chair. Must ensure workstation is safe and free from hazards.

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s Degree required. Must have at least three years of professional work experience, preferably in study abroad and international program management and administration. Prior experience studying, living, or working abroad.

Preferences: Master’s degree in International Education, Intercultural Studies, Global/Area Studies, or a related discipline preferred. Preference will also be given to applicants with foreign language skills and/or prior experience supporting international or exchange students in a higher education setting. Experience with event planning is desirable.

To apply, please provide a CV/resume, cover letter, and 3 references.