South Dakota State University is seeking an Academic Advisor who is passionate about helping students succeed. In this role, you will be a trusted resource for students as they explore their academic goals, navigate degree requirements, and prepare for graduation. You’ll also play a key role in welcoming new students, creating meaningful first impressions, and sharing the opportunities our programs offer. By connecting with prospective students and supporting current students throughout their journey, you’ll make a lasting impact on their experience at SDState. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
The Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering has a rich history of success in fulfilling its land-grant mission in teaching, research, and outreach. Our thousands of graduates in Engineering, Mathematics, Science, and Technology have helped change the world and improve our quality of life. Our programs emphasize problem-solving, research, and collaboration with industry and government partners. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and access to cutting-edge resources, while faculty have opportunities to engage in applied research and industry-focused projects that make a real-world impact.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position will provide comprehensive academic advising and student support for undergraduate students within the various programs in the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Advising students on academic planning, career exploration, and graduation requirements to support their success from orientation through degree completion.
- Meeting assigned students at least once a semester to guide them for course selection, prerequisites, and registration to ensure timely progress toward degree completion.
- Monitoring student academic performance, identifying students who may be at academic risk, recommending appropriate interventions, tutoring, academic support services, and success strategies.
- Explaining university policies, academic regulations, and engineering college requirements.
- Assisting students with registration, schedule adjustments, withdrawals, and academic petitions when appropriate.
- Maintaining accurate advising records and documentation and conducting degree audits to verify progress toward graduation.
- Serving as a primary point of contact for undergraduate students and communicating important academic deadlines, policy changes, and program updates.
- Providing proactive outreach to students experiencing academic difficulties and developing strategies to improve retention, persistence, and graduation rates.
- Leading orientation sessions and college events that create a welcoming and engaging experience for new students.
- Connecting with prospective and admitted students through campus visits, outreach, and follow-up communication to support recruitment and retention goals.
- Developing and employing recruitment strategies, including school visits, college fairs, and community engagement, to share opportunities within the college.
- Collaborating with faculty, staff, and external partners to enhance the student experience and strengthen program outreach.
BENEFITS:
SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.
Minimum Qualifications:
- An earned bachelor’s degree by the position start date.
- Minimum of 1 year of experience working with students in a student-centered environment.
- Effective written communication skills.
- Effective verbal communication skills and strong interpersonal skills.
- A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire and a willingness to travel.
Preferred Qualifications:
- An earned master’s degree in education, engineering, or a related discipline.
- Prior experience in academic advising, or similar role.
- Experience in recruiting undergraduate students.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.
SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.
