Part-Time Writing Consultant

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, a part-time writing consultant will be expected to help undergraduate and graduate students (from all disciplines) become better writers and communicators through 1-on-1 appointments which will take place in-person, asynchronously, and via Zoom during the academic year; to carefully read, discuss, and make suggestions on a wide variety of student drafts, group projects, multimodal assignments, personal statements, and speeches; to monitor the official writing center email address; to partake in a series of mentoring programs, professional development, staff meetings, and trainings; to contribute to department initiatives and outreach; to facilitate informational class visits and writing workshops requested by faculty and staff; to provide feedback about logistical operations and student services; and to promote the mission behind the writing center which is to foster a culture of critically conscientious writers on campus.

Job Duties

• Read and act in accordance with the policies and procedures outlined by University Writing Services

• Participate in fall orientation prior to the start of the academic year (or first-month training sessions in the spring)

• Attend staff meetings scheduled throughout the academic year

• Research and practice interdisciplinary formatting and citation styles

• Learn about representational and situational topics (e.g. anti-racist consulting, neurodiverse writers, how to write a philosophy paper) by completing an independent, asynchronous training

• Work with students from diverse backgrounds

• Help students navigate the various writing center locations and services offered across campus

• Hold one-on-one appointments with students in-person, asynchronously, and via Zoom

• Model professional standards of behavior (e.g. show up on time, strive for excellence by setting goals, and display a willingness to improve)

• Equip students with handouts and online resources

• Make referrals to campus partners

• Keep accurate and thorough consultation records (e.g. consistently mark student attendance)

• Ask students to complete a survey and use feedback to influence consulting strategies

• Monitor the official University Writing Services email account

• Communicate and compose emails before and after appointments to faculty, staff, and students

• Participate in the Synchronous and Online Mentoring Programs

• After a minimum of 1 but ideally 2 semesters working at University Writing Services, mentor and observe new employees at designated times each semester

• Act as an unofficial mentor to other consultants

• Contribute to the English 3859 Practicum and Mentoring Program offered only during the spring semester

• Participate in outreach to Saint Louis University colleges, departments, programs, and schools

• Promote University Writing Services to undergraduate and graduate students

• Lead informational visits requested by faculty and staff

• Create, update, and present writing workshops requested by faculty and staff

• Write a Consultant Philosophy Statement (or complete an alternative project) to engage with writing center literature, stay informed about current practices, and continue professional development

• Contribute to department initiatives

• May be asked to facilitate a first-month training session or staff meeting

• May be asked to work at a satellite location (i.e. Chaifetz Arena, School of Nursing, Pius XII Memorial Library)

• May be asked to develop or revise student and consultant resources (e.g. handouts, workshop materials, asynchronous training modules, videos)

• May be offered hours to work during winter and summer sessions depending on student demand

• Participate in a formal evaluation and discuss results with supervisor at the end of every academic year

• Give feedback on the effectiveness of University Writing Services programs and initiatives

• Think critically about ways to improve services for students

• May be asked to assist in the planning and preparation for the following academic year

• Perform other relevant duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced communication skills (experience with providing verbal and written feedback)

• Customer service skills (active listening and problem-solving)

• Planning and organizational skills

• Presentation and facilitation skills

• Strong interpersonal and human relations skills

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree

Applicants must include: 1) a cover letter; 2) a resume/curriculum vitae. You can upload these items on the third page "My experience" of the application.

In-person/Work Schedule Expectations

This position is primarily in-person and will require the individual to work in the office.

Function

Unclassified Positions

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

20

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.