SEVIS Coordinator

SEVIS Coordinator

The SEVIS Coordinator is a 20 hour/week, 12-month position and reports to the Associate Dean of Students. The SEVIS Coordinator will work collaboratively with the Associate Dean of Students and campus departments to support international students at Lake Forest College, including processing international student documents, maintaining records in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), and providing support services for international students. The Coordinator will also serve as one of the Designated School Officials (DSO) for the College, which requires understanding and training on federal rules and regulations for F-1 students.

A highly selective liberal arts college located in a suburb of Chicago, Lake Forest College enrolls more than 1,500 students from more than 47 states and 78 countries. Located just 30 miles north of Chicago, the College is a coeducational, undergraduate institution offering students the opportunities and challenges of a liberal arts education. The College’s student body is culturally diverse, with nearly 40% of our students identifying as U.S. students of color or international students. We also have a vibrant LGBTQIA+ student population.

Primary Responsibilities include:

• Under the supervision of the Associate Dean of Students and Primary Designated School Official (PDSO), the coordinator serves as a Designated School Official (DSO) responsible for routine SEVIS record maintenance, form I-20 creation, and basic updates and reporting to help ensure College and individual student compliance with immigration regulations.
• Coordinate with Admissions regarding incoming international student document preparation. Prepare and send immigration documents to new international students.
• Update and maintain SEVIS records for F-1 students for annual reporting, travel, and academic changes. Prepare letters and documentation for students regarding enrollment, travel, graduation, and employment.
• Manage database, prepare and oversee storage of electronic documents and files for international students, and prepare reports as needed.
• Assist in the coordination of the new international student orientation and other workshops and programs for international students.
• Assist in the development of materials and information for international students (i.e. brochures, flyers, website, etc.)
• Serve as a primary point of contact for inquiries from international students and direct them to the appropriate campus office or resource.
• Liase with external groups and organizations including the Social Security Administration, the Department of Motor Vehicles, Office of the the Illinois Secretary of State, and the Department of Homeland Security to resolve issues or provide/receive information.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications, knowledge, and skills:

• A Bachelor’s degree is required. Prior administrative experience is required for this position. Previous work experience in international education is preferred.
• The ability to become a Designated School Official (DSO) and use the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is required. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that DSOs have U.S. citizenship or permanent residence.

The successful candidate will also have:

• The ability to adapt to new technology and the willingness to receive training on SEVIS and related immigration documentation. Prior experience with F-1 immigration regulations is preferred.
• Good organizational, analytical, decision making, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail as well as strong written and oral communication skills
• The ability to work effectively with students from diverse cultural backgrounds; ability to understand and respect their needs.
• A positive attitude, commitment to cultural diversity, flexibility, and integrity.
• Strong computer skills. Ability to effectively use Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook; ability to learn new databases and software as needed.
• The ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.

Application Process

To apply please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references via e-mail to: Erin Hoffman, Associate Dean of Students, at hoffman@lakeforest.edu. Priority will be given to applications received on or before April 5, 2019.

Lake Forest College embraces diversity and encourages applications from women, members of historically underrepresented groups, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.