Associate Director of Career Services

Summary:

The Associate Director of Career Services is instrumental in equipping students for their professional journeys and further academic pursuits. This role entails collaboration with external employers, current undergraduate students, and faculty/staff to establish pathways for internships and job placements. Furthermore, the Associate Director will contribute to achieving the Center for Career & Vocation's strategic goal of a 95% successful launch rate for undergraduate students, while also supporting the career development objectives of the HSI Grant: Avanzando: Access and Success, aimed at enhancing Career Development Services for the undergraduate demographic.

Office Overview:

The Center for Career and Vocation aligns with the mission of Concordia University Irvine by assisting undergraduate students in discovering their purpose and vocation, creating a structured plan for career readiness, and optimizing employability.

Key Responsibilities:

This position involves advising a group of traditional undergraduate students. All functions of this role are designed to contribute to the university's mission.

Appointment Process:

• Recommended by the Director of Career Development & Vocation and the Associate Dean of Student Development
• Approved by the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs

Collaboration:

• Reports to the Director of Career Development and Vocation with programmatic accountability to the HSI Program Director
• Engages closely with HSI grant positions, Registrar, Admissions, Student Success staff, Orientation team, and Clubs and Organizations
• Consults with the Provost, Deans of the Schools, Department Chairs, faculty, and others regarding policies and programs that impact student success

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

HSI Grant Initiatives Related to Career Development

1. Execute HSI grant initiatives for Concordia's Career Services Department
2. Identify and cultivate relationships with strategic employers; conduct visits as necessary to promote internships, job postings, and employer engagement in professional development activities.
3. Possess knowledge of the Hispanic community and best practices for developing students professionally for internship and career opportunities.

Career and Professional Development

1. Provide individualized career and professional development support; assist targeted student populations in understanding factors influencing their major/career choices, decision-making processes, and goal clarification.
2. Maintain and enhance partnerships with corporations and organizations to develop and refine employer resources, promoting external relations related to career services for students and alumni.
3. Administer and interpret assessment tools currently utilized at the career center.
4. Evaluate and provide feedback on student resumes, cover letters, and other job search materials to meet diverse industry standards.
5. Engage in cross-departmental service delivery to various constituencies, including First Year experience, WINGS, first-generation, and undeclared students.
6. With a comprehensive understanding of student career readiness needs, develop and implement workshops and information sessions, coordinating with key stakeholders as appropriate.

Training and Program Development

1. Research and identify career development resources and labor market information relevant to fields of study and career options.
2. Utilize standard quantitative and qualitative assessments to assist students in evaluating their strengths, values, and career aspirations.
3. Design, plan, and conduct orientations, seminars, workshops, and classroom presentations on topics such as career strategies, resume writing, interview techniques, salary negotiations, and social media brand management.

Technology & Marketing

1. Research, evaluate, and update written and electronic career and educational resources; present industry data and trends to students during counseling sessions and workshops.
2. Promote and market partnerships with alumni to encourage their involvement as presenters for career and professional programming.
3. Develop and implement marketing campaigns to support programming through targeted communications for student and employer audiences based on majors and career outcomes.
4. Market internship and job opportunities to faculty and students.
5. Establish and manage program delivery formats, including live and recorded webinars, as well as virtual appointments.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Adhere to the Professional Competencies for College and University Career Services Practitioners.
2. Engage in professional development activities to enhance skills, knowledge of career development practices, and stay informed on industry trends.
3. Participate and collaborate in meetings with the Student Affairs department, faculty/staff, and the Student Success team.
4. Serve on various campus or external committees as assigned.
5. Participate in professional organizations' events, including workshops and conferences.
6. Supervise student workers as needed or requested by the director.
7. Fulfill duties that may require day, evening, and weekend hours.
8. Perform other responsibilities as assigned to ensure the success of the center on behalf of the university, its students, and alumni.
9. As a member of Student Affairs, this position represents the Center for Career & Vocation in various team meetings.

Qualifications:

To excel in this role, an individual must effectively perform each essential duty. The qualifications listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• This position requires strategic thinking, political acumen, and relationship-building capabilities.
• Knowledge of individual and group career coaching/counseling techniques.
• Ability to assist individuals in identifying factors influencing career decision-making, such as social influences, educational opportunities, and financial considerations.
• Establish rapport and demonstrate tact and diplomacy with diverse constituencies, including students, alumni, parents, employers, faculty, and staff.
• Strong public speaking, written communication, and editing skills for developing reports, memos, handouts, brochures, and promotional materials.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform well under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• Proficient in technology: basic database management, social media platforms, and MS Office applications.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all university, departmental, and student processes and records.

Other Skills and Attributes:

Attitude and Demeanor:

• Exemplify the Christian philosophy of the Concordia University mission statement in all aspects of daily responsibilities.
• Communicate warmth, understanding, and helpfulness when interacting with students, staff, faculty, and the public.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with all individuals interacting with this department.
• Exhibit a positive, loyal, and team-oriented attitude toward the university's purposes, programs, policies, and goals.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding departmental and campus matters.
• Work collaboratively as a team member.
• Possess a forward-thinking and innovative outlook.
• Adhere to appropriate behavior and dress standards suitable for a Christian university environment.
• Continuously strive for performance improvement.

Education and Experience:

• 1-3 years of experience in Career Services within Higher Education or a Private Business Environment.
• Experience in building relationships with private employers, particularly in outreach initiatives with Hispanic businesses and the nonprofit sector.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution required; Master's degree preferred.