About the Department
The Office of Global Learning supports Cornell's vibrant international community by helping students navigate complex immigration regulations and maintain their visa status while pursuing their academic goals. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional service, accurate guidance, and compassionate support to thousands of international students from around the world.
The Opportunity
Do you enjoy helping others navigate complex processes while making a meaningful impact on their lives?
Cornell University is seeking two Immigration Advisors to join our highly respected and collaborative International Services team. These positions offer a unique opportunity to partner with international students, helping them understand immigration regulations, maintain legal status, and successfully pursue their educational goals.
We are hiring for:
- One ongoing, continuing position
- One 12-month term appointment, with the potential for extension based on business needs and funding approvals
Whether you bring prior immigration experience or have a strong background in higher education, student services, advising, customer service, or case management, we welcome candidates who are eager to learn, highly detail-oriented, and committed to supporting student success.
This role offers extensive training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to develop a specialized skill set that can grow into a rewarding long-term career.
What you’ll Do
As an Immigration Advisor, you will:
- Advise international students regarding F-1 and J-1 immigration regulations.
- Review requests and immigration documentation for accuracy and compliance.
- Assist students with maintaining lawful immigration status throughout their academic journey.
- Meet with students through in-person and virtual appointments.
- Respond to inquiries from students, academic departments, advisors, and campus partners.
- Maintain accurate case records and documentation in university systems.
- Interpret and apply federal regulations, university policies, and established procedures.
- Collaborate closely with colleagues to ensure consistent and accurate guidance.
- Participate in professional development and immigration-related training opportunities.
- Contribute to a highly supportive team environment focused on student success.
What We Need
- Associate’s degree or equivalent education and work experience required.
- Minimum of four years’ experience in student services, teaching, counseling, overseas development work, or a closely related field.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- The ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
- Empathy, active listening skills, and commitment to outstanding customer service.
- Sound judgment and the ability to apply policies consistently.
- The confidence to establish and maintain professional boundaries when necessary.
- Strong collaboration skills and a willingness to seek guidance and ask questions.
- The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
It Would Be a Bonus if You Have Any of the Following
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience advising international students.
- Knowledge of F-1 and/or J-1 immigration regulations.
- Designated School Official (DSO) experience.
- Experience working in a college or university setting.
- Familiarity with PeopleSoft or other student information systems.
- Experience preparing presentations, reports, or training materials.
- Advanced skills with Microsoft Office applications.
Important Notes About Applying
- A resume and cover letter outlining your interest and how your experience and goals align with the potential for mutual success in the role are required for consideration.
- This position is based in Ithaca, NY and is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement of three days on campus and two days remote. To support onboarding and initial training, the selected candidate will be expected to work fully on site during the first 90 days.
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Pay
Pay Rate Type: Hourly
Pay Range: $29.45 - $31.66