Job location: Colby College

Employment Type: Full-time
Posted data: 2021-09-23
Req: R0000517
Job DescriptionDepartment:Career AdvisingPay Rate Type:SalaryEmployee Type:Job Summary:DavisConnects
Full-Time, Exempt, Salaried, Administrative Staff Appointment

DAVISCONNECTS:

Complementing its focus on a classical, broad-based liberal education that requires deep inquiry, hones critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and encourages curiosity and lifelong learning, Colby now integrates a set of universally available experiences into the academic program. Several opportunities will allow students to connect their education to the world and the great challenges of the 21st century while preparing them for future success in graduate schools and careers. DavisConnects guarantees a global experience for all students, making Colby the first leading liberal arts college to provide funding for every student to spend time abroad. Ultimately, Colby will connect every student to a facilitated and funded set of internships and research experiences, establishing Colby as a leader in global education and offering all Colby students an exceptional and unique set of opportunities that will deepen their education and improve their life outcomes.

THE POSITION:

Colby College is seeking a primary advisor for students and alumni interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) professions, as part of a comprehensive student advising model integrating research, internships, and global experiences into their Colby student experience. The DavisConnects advisor will have a demonstrated interest or previous experience in STEM, partnering with directors and faculty and alumni who have expertise in STEM fields to help students prepare a roadmap to STEM career development that includes both academic preparation and relevant pre-professional career training. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic and visionary culture to advise students and graduates who express interest in exploring, preparing for, and pursuing higher education and professions related to Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Geology, Mathematics, Neuroscience, and Physics. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Primary advisor to students and alumni interested in areas of STEM professions, helping them assess interests, explore opportunities, and refine a plan leading to post-graduate success
• Partner closely with the director of pre-health advising in the development of post-graduate opportunities as well as co-advising of students where appropriate
• Advise first-year students as a member of the DavisConnects advising team
• Advise students enrolled in the dual-degree engineering programs on research and internships
• Facilitate workshops and manage programs for target populations to include industry focused alumni panels, off-campus treks (off-campus opportunities to explore career industries across the U.S.) and topical workshops
• Advise and critique on related STEM professions resumes and cover letters, as well as facilitate mock interviewing and networking opportunities
• Advocate for underrepresented groups and diversity in STEM professions
• Assist students preparing for graduate school and fellowship applications
• Collaborate with the employer engagement team to cultivate national and international student research and internship opportunities
• Build and nurture relationships with academic departments, student groups, and other campus entities
• Work with Division of College Advancement colleagues to leverage contacts for the purpose of enhancing student programming and experiential opportunities
• Build advantageous relationships with related graduate programs in the U.S. and abroad, scientific research institutions, and corporations leading to opportunities and programs to the benefit of STEM students
• Develop ongoing knowledge of current industry trends and identify areas of opportunity growth for students and young alumni
• Serve as a representative for DavisConnects at various campus events including Admissions and Alumni events
• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in education and experience; advanced coursework a plus
• Minimum of 3 years in advising and/or progressive responsibility in student advising in a liberal arts college setting; experience or demonstrated interest in a related professional field preferred
• Working knowledge of behavioral techniques for student interview preparation
• Strong interest in or working knowledge of the requirements of STEM graduate programs, application systems and procedures, and the selection criteria employed particularly by STEM graduate schools, or experience in STEM preferred
• Ability to interact effectively with multiple constituents including students, faculty, alumni, parents, and employers
• Experience organizing, marketing, and executing events preferred
• Commitment to working with a diverse student population at a top liberal arts college
• Experience working with or advising diverse groups or students appreciated
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills combined with a professional demeanor
• Highly organized with extreme attentiveness to detail related to managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Proficiency in database systems as well as Google/Microsoft suites

• Valid driver’s license required and must meet the College’s Fleet Safety Policy requirements

KEY RELATIONSHIPS:

Reporting to the director of advising and working closely with other advising team members, this position will engage a variety of campus constituents, as well as the Colby Network to provide a best-in-class advising experience and student growth opportunities. This position also has significant interaction with all DavisConnects staff and academic department faculty.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

General open office and campus environment. Position involves sitting, although frequent movement is necessary. Computer usage involving repetitive hand/wrist motion is also necessary. Weekend and evening hours required. Some travel is required.

TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the "Apply" button on the Colby Careers website. Please submit a letter of interest including salary requirements, resume, and the contact information of three professional references. Materials should be addressed to:

DavisConnects Advisor for STEM Professions - Search Committee
Office of Human Resources
Colby College
5500 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME 04901-8855