University Counselor I/II

Serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) for F-1 students and an Alternative Responsible Officer (ARO) for J-1 exchange visitors, ensuring compliance with federal immigration regulations and SEVIS requirements. Issue and maintain Form I-20s and DS-2019s and ensure accurate and timely maintenance of student and scholar immigration records. Provide comprehensive immigration advising to F-1 and J-1 students and scholars on maintaining status, travel, employment authorization, program changes, dependents, and other immigration matters. Advise students and scholars on complex immigration matters involving federal regulations, University policies, and individual circumstances. Counsel F-1 students regarding CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, on-campus employment, and other employment-related requirements. Counsel J-1 scholars regarding employment authorization, program requirements, status maintenance, and applicable Department of State regulations. Prepare and file H-1B petitions on behalf of eligible University employees and scholars, ensuring compliance with applicable USCIS requirements and deadlines. Coordinate with the University Immigration Attorney on permanent residence matters, including preparation and coordination of University-sponsored employment-based permanent residence petitions. Review immigration applications, petitions, supporting documentation, and requests for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance. Interpret and apply complex and frequently changing regulations and guidance issued by USCIS, DHS, SEVP, and the Department of State. Monitor federal regulatory and policy changes and assess their impact on University students, scholars, employees, and OISS operations. Identify potential immigration compliance issues and provide appropriate guidance, escalation, and resolution in consultation with OISS leadership and legal counsel when necessary. Maintain accurate records and ensure timely reporting and updates in SEVIS and other University systems. Collaborate with academic departments, Human Resources, faculty, administrators, and other University offices to resolve immigration, employment, and compliance matters. Provide individual advising through appointments, email, telephone, and other communication channels while managing a high volume of inquiries and cases. Conduct orientations, workshops, presentations, and training programs for international students, scholars, faculty, staff, and University departments. Develop and maintain immigration advising materials, communications, webpages, presentations, and other resources to ensure accurate dissemination of regulatory information. Support the recruitment, enrollment, retention, and academic success of international students and scholars through timely and effective advising and support services. Participate in the development and implementation of OISS policies, procedures, and processes in response to changes in federal regulations and University priorities. Maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment when handling sensitive immigration, employment, academic, and personal information. Participate in professional development and maintain current knowledge of international education practices and federal immigration regulations. Perform other related duties and special projects assigned by OISS leadership.