Now Hiring - North American University - International Student Advisor / Designated School Official (DSO) in Stafford, TX

Full description of the position

Job Summary North American University (NAU) and Gulf Language School (GLS) are seeking a dedicated and experienced DSO International Student Advisor to serve as the primary point of support for our F-1 international student population. This role is critical in maintaining compliance with federal regulations while also fostering a welcoming and supportive educational environment for our diverse student community. Responsibilities * Serve as an official Designated School Official (DSO) for NAU and GLS, maintaining the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and ensuring compliance with all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations. * Issue and maintain I-20s, monitor student immigration statuses, and ensure timely updates in SEVIS. * Stay current with SEVIS and USCIS policies and procedures relevant to F-1 student records, reporting any regulatory updates to the Principal DSO and leadership. * Provide advising and assistance to students on immigration petitions and applications, including: o Initial and reissued I-20s o F-1 visa processing o Work permits (OPT, OPT STEM, CPT, Economic Hardship Employment Authorization) o Reinstatements and reduced course load authorizations o Change of status, medical leave, and extensions of stay * Support F-1 students through individual advising sessions, information meetings, and orientation programs, covering academic requirements, OPT opportunities, employment options, and cultural adjustment. * Monitor and track international student data for accuracy, ensuring compliance with SEVIS and institutional requirements. * Assist students experiencing cross-cultural, family, personal, or financial challenges, referring them to appropriate resources and community services. * Collaborate with faculty, staff, and administration to develop strategies that support student success and retention. * Coordinate and plan new student orientations, retention strategies, and student support programming tailored to international students. * Function as a liaison between students, departments, and external institutions to support academic success and smooth transfer processes. * Maintain accurate records in Jenzabar and Salesforce with timely updates to student information. * Support policy development by contributing to departmental procedures and compliance frameworks. * Prepare and deliver presentations and informational sessions for students, staff, and faculty on immigration and program-related matters. * Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of International Affairs and/or Principal DSO. Qualifications * Minimum of one year of experience as a SEVIS DSO working directly with F-1 international students. * In-depth knowledge of SEVIS, DHS, and USCIS regulations. * Strong communication, advising, and problem-solving skills. * Experience using student information systems (Jenzabar, Salesforce preferred). * Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and with diverse populations. * Bilingual preferred Why Join Us? * At North American University and Gulf Language School, we are committed to providing a supportive, student-centered environment where international students can thrive academically and personally. We offer: * A dynamic and fast-paced work environment. * Opportunities to make a meaningful impact on students' lives. * A comprehensive benefits package for full-time staff, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Educational Grants, and more. If supporting students and ensuring their success is important to you, we invite you to apply and join our dedicated international student support team. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year Benefits: * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Paid time off * Tuition reimbursement * Vision insurance Experience: * DSO: 1 year (Required) Work Location: In person