Director, Academic Advising

Position Title: Director of Academic Advising

Description

At Chattanooga College MDTC, our leadership team helps implement our strategy of “Where a small school can make a BIG difference!!”

The Director of Academic Advising will provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight to the academic advising department and its stakeholders to support student persistence, retention, and timely degree completion. This includes responsibilities such as staff supervision, policy development, data analysis, and cross-departmental coordination. Ideal candidates must have excellent interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and listening skills. Candidates must be able to adapt to a fast-paced work environment and manage multiple priorities and changing assignments.

This is a professional non-instructional position supporting the Academic Advising Department. This role requires considerable interaction with students, faculty, and staff through individual meetings, group sessions, and/or events. Directors are expected to possess extensive knowledge of higher education regulations, advising models, institutional policies, and student information systems. They must be able to interpret individual needs, provide personalized support, and work effectively with individuals who may be confused, stressed, or demanding.

Employees in this role can expect to support individuals regarding academic pathways and institutional processes, assist with decision-making related to curriculum changes and departmental growth, and help guide individuals toward successful outcomes. This position requires maintaining confidentiality and accurate records to ensure compliance with accreditation standards, institutional policies, and federal regulations (FERPA). The role may also support institutional events such as Orientation and Graduation. A strong commitment to equity, access, and success for underrepresented or at-risk populations is essential.

Salary Range

$55,000 – $65,000

Responsibilities

1. Provides leadership and supervision to a diverse population of advising staff, including regular contact regarding performance and professional growth.
2. Implements institutional or departmental strategic priorities related to retention, completion, and student engagement.
3. Counsels, advises, or supports individuals through individual and group sessions to address complex academic concerns and provide guidance.
4. Educates individuals on institutional resources, policies, procedures, and expectations.
5. Implements solutions, including technology, to promote efficiency, access, and success.
6. Completes required professional development and training annually and facilitates training for the advising team.
7. Supports department-wide and student services initiatives at a leadership level.
8. Maintains accurate documentation and records in compliance with institutional, accreditation, and federal requirements.
9. Collaborates with departments and colleagues to increase engagement, retention, and success, especially for at-risk populations.
10. Provides appropriate referrals for personal, social, and/or academic concerns that may impair success.
11. Upholds confidentiality and complies with institutional policies, accreditation standards, and federal regulations.
12. Assists with planning and coordination of events such as Orientation, Graduation, and recruitment workshops.
13. Maintains tools, systems, or resources (such as CRM or SIS platforms) necessary to effectively perform job duties.
14. Remains current on relevant state and federal guidelines, emerging best practices, and research related to the role.
15. Collaborates with College Leadership and the Provost.

Please note: This job description is not exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and public presentation skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in verbal and written formats.
• Knowledge of the role’s function in supporting learning, access, and success through proactive advising models.
• Ability to use technology to support services, including Microsoft Office, student information systems, and data analytics platforms.

Education & Experience

Education or Training:

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Higher Education Administration, Student Development, Education or a related field is required.

Experience:

• A minimum of six (6) years of experience in academic advising or student services is required; at least two (2) years of supervisory or leadership experience in a higher education environment is preferred.

Other Requirements

• Please submit a 2–5 minute video response summarizing your qualifications, interest in the position, and the reason you feel you would be the right fit for the leadership team at Chattanooga College MDTC to careers@chattanoogacollege.edu.

Applications that do not include the required materials will not be reviewed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Chattanooga College MDTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Chattanooga College MDTC encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and is dedicated to providing equal access to employment opportunities.

Compensation details: 55000-65000 Yearly Salary

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