Academic Advisor in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at University of Pittsburgh

Academic Advisor

Biological Sciences - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26002617)

The Department of Biological Sciences in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is seeking an Academic Advisor to join a collaborative, student-centered team dedicated to helping undergraduates achieve their academic and professional goals. Our advisors work with over 1600 students across six degree programs (Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Computational Biology, Ecology and Evolution, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology), each with its own distinct curriculum, career landscape, and graduate or professional school pathways. Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds, including underrepresented minority, first-generation, and international students, and are interested in applying to professional health-related programs (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant, physical therapy, etc.) or research-based graduate programs, and/or pursuing careers in research, education and industry. Advisors in this department play a meaningful role in connecting students with the right experiences, resources, and guidance at each stage of their undergraduate journey. The ideal candidate has subject-matter expertise and/or work experience in the life sciences or related fields, and a genuine commitment to student success. This role requires the ability to manage a substantial advising caseload while balancing administrative, project-driven, and collaborative responsibilities. This position requires patience, flexibility, energy, and a sincere desire to assist students. Excellent organizational, communication, and timeliness skills, as well as cooperation, collaboration, and accuracy are essential. Successful candidates will have an ability to understand and appreciate the perspectives of students from all communities, especially communities of color and other underrepresented groups. We seek to hire individuals who foster and promote an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued; treat all individuals with respect; build collaborative working relationships with people of all backgrounds; and practice equitable treatment and opportunity for all individuals. Minimum qualifications for this position include a master's degree and 2 years of experience working with high school or undergraduate students in an advisory, teaching, supervisory, or mentoring role. Preferred qualifications include:

• Master's degree in biological sciences or an adjacent field, such as biomedical engineering, chemistry, data science with a life science focus, environmental science, clinucal lab science, neuroscience, psychology, post-graduate allied health, or science education.
• For candidates without a master's degree in biology or a related field, a bachelor's degree in any STEM field and 4 years of related experience.
• Familiarity with pre-medical advising, professional school application processes (MD, MD/PhD, PA, dental, veterinary, etc.), or graduate school preparation in the life sciences.
• Experience in academic, clinical, or research settings relevant to the life sciences.

Job Summary

Utilizes advanced advising knowledge, theory, and practical experience to serve as an academic liaison for students to identify academic and career goals, select appropriate courses, and plan for degree attainment. Manages small to medium-sized, moderately complex projects.

Essential Functions

The Academic Advisor must be able to use a computer and keyboard, and be able to use video communication technology (Skype, Zoom, Teams, etc.). Work is frequently conducted by email, telephone, in-person, or using video communication technology. The ability to communicate in a clear and concise fashion is essential.

Physical Effort

This position is generally sedentary within an office setting, but the ability to travel around campus occasionally is necessary.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Academic Advisor II

Job Family: Academic & Student Services

Job Sub Family: Academic Advising

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Master's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 2

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Work Arrangement: Hybrid: Combination of On-Campus and Remote work as determined by the department.

Hiring Range: $45,000 to $50,000 annually

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Not Applicable