Student Life Specialist

Description

SUMMARY:

MCAD is seeking a Student Life Specialist. The Student Life Specialist is the primary international and off-campus study advisor, and assists with Housing and Student Affairs related tasks and events. The Student Life Specialist must be sensitive to college needs, employee and student goodwill, and overall brand equity of MCAD as an employer and educational institution.

DETAILS: This is a part time, non-exempt position expected to work 20 hours a week. This position reports to the Vice President of Student Affairs and is paid $23 - $26 hourly.

TO APPLY: Please submit a resume and cover letter to https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/b0ccf9fc-c11e-4ce1-bb54-075eb5c74c59/Minneapolis-College-of-Art-and-Design. Priority will be given to those who respond by May 29, 2026.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Act as an International Student Advisor and Off-campus Study Advisor
• Act as Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) to the Department of Homeland Security, including managing SEVIS database.
• Process all required enrollment paperwork/documentation for international students.
• Counsel students on programs, academic standards and requirements necessary to maintain appropriate non-immigrant status.
• Work with other college departments regarding international student needs/regulations.
• Coordinate the Off-Campus Study Committee and meetings.
• Research off-campus academic exchange programs for committee review.
• Assist students with off-campus study applications and appropriate documents needed for programs.
• Assist Housing Director with housing assignments and notifications
• Act as the liaison between off-campus and international program contacts and appropriate MCAD departments.
• Develop and maintain departmental materials (print,website,social media) relating to international students and off-campus study.
• Create and present information related to New Student Orientations and related ongoing events and programming.
• Assist with PSEO registration and orientation.
• Work with colleagues to ensure that office coverage is appropriately met.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Represent MCAD's vision, mission, and values.
• Create and embrace a community of equal opportunities and inclusivity.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position has supervisory responsibilities over work study students and casual labor employees.

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's Degree, required, preferably in an appropriate academic field: Education, higher education administration, student affairs, or international studies.
• Two (2) years experience working in a college or university setting, required.
• One (1) year experience working with SEVIS database and F-1 Visa issuance and understanding of regulations, strongly preferred.
• Preferred basic knowledge of U.S. Immigration regulations and government agencies.
• Preferred strong cultural competency and ability to deliver culturally responsive services.

ENVIRONMENT: This position operates in a professional office environment. This position requires the ability and willingness to closely partner with team members and colleagues in other departments. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The schedule will require some nights and weekends. Upon request, reasonable accommodation will be provided to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

BENEFITS: MCAD's community of staff and faculty enjoy a dynamic, creative, and inclusive work environment. We offer a benefits package for part time employees which includes five (5) personal days, supplementary/elective insurance plans, 403(b) retirement plans, commuter benefits, accrued Earned Sick and Safe Time, and Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leaves.

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1886, Minneapolis College of Art and Design is located in the rich creative community of the Twin Cities. Recognized nationally and internationally for its innovative approaches to art and design education, MCAD is home to approximately 800 students from 45 states and 15 countries. The college offers bachelor's degrees in fourteen disciplines including arts entrepreneurship, design, fine arts, and media arts; one MFA; three online master's degrees; and continuing education classes for all ages. Through the core curriculum, students focus on their careers and craft by learning technical and professional skills while developing their creative leadership capabilities.

MCAD is especially interested in candidates who have experience with diverse populations who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the MCAD community.