Admissions Counselor

Job Description

For over 55 years, the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity (OMA&D) has advanced diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Washington, a campus that sits on tribal land. Through our programs and partnerships, we create pathways for diverse populations to access postsecondary opportunities, nurture and support their academic success, and cultivate a campus climate that enriches the educational experience for all. This legacy of work continues to drive excellence at the UW and together, we help the university work toward its vision for becoming a more just and equitable campus community. More information about the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity is available here.

Within OMA&D is the College Access unit that implements programs focused on expanding access for American Indian and under-served communities by partnering with K-12 school districts, two-year colleges, and community coalitions. The admission counselor helps identify, recruit and provide admissions counseling support to students from American Indian and underrepresented minority backgrounds. This position supports students throughout the admissions process as well as helps advise students to develop a portfolio of classes aligned with admissions criteria for their chosen academic program. This includes early identification of potential applicants, the ability to conduct high school visits and college fairs and provide culturally inclusive admissions and financial aid presentations, workshops, and the counseling of prospective students.  This admissions counselor recruitment territory will target Washington state to work with our American Indian/Alaska Native communities to outreach and recruit prospective students. This position will target federal recognized American Indian Tribes/Nations in Washington State, as well as Tribes in Idaho and Oregon that  are federally recognized tribes eligible for resident tuition in Washington State.

The Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity has an outstanding opportunity for an Admissions Counselor to join their team.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Counseling prospective student applicants about opportunities available at the UW, the admissions process, financial literacy, and academic preparation and planning to enroll at the University. Such counseling takes place through in-person appointments, information sessions, phone calls and emails.
• Representing the UW at high schools, community events, college fairs and on campus information sessions and events  
• Assisting in outreach and recruitment programs and events
• Implements and leads student programming for 9th - 11th graders that is culturally appropriate and continues to develop a connection to the UW Husky Experience
• Read and assess freshmen applications
• Development of productivity and status reports
• Other duties as assigned

Application Requirement

This recruitment requires a cover letter. Your application will not be considered unless you attach a cover letter.

Your letter should outline your interest in the position, highlight relevant experience or qualifications, and explain how you would add value to the team or organization. It must be specific to this role.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Social or Human Services or related field and
• At least 2-3 years of college access, youth development and/or outreach experience, or equivalent.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Experience working with first generation, American Indian/Alaska Native, and racial/ethnically diverse populations as well as an understanding of their cultural differences and their effect on college planning.
• Experience collaborating with community organizations serving the American Indian community. Must have working knowledge of serving students of American Indian/Alaska Natives descent.
• Prior experience working with American Indian & Alaska Native youth.
• Knowledge of Native American and tribal sovereignty in the U.S.
• Experience working with tribal leaders, Native American serving institutions, students living on reservations and those living in urban areas.
• Strong public speaking skills and the ability to present the University in a positive way to diverse populations.
• A highly motivated self-starter with an ability to set and meet goals, to make decisions independently, and to multi-task and prioritize in fast-paced environments
• Fearless communicator with demonstrated in-person, social media, and strong writing skills.
• Team player who can play both a leading and a supporting role.
• Familiarity with challenges facing both urban and rural communities. Experience working with underrepresented students, multicultural outreach programs and recruitment events.
• Must be able to effectively communicate across various demographics beyond and within the UW campus.
• Must be comfortable with technology and have proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets and database software tools.
• Must be able to demonstrate ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communications, interpersonal, presentation and computer skills.
• Leadership in event planning and implementation experience.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in college admissions, recruitment, or early outreach and engagement with youth in Washington and American Indian Tribes/Nations and an understanding of the distinctive qualities of the UW.
• Demonstrated lead experience with project management, especially involving university teams and/or committee convening roles.
• Strong quantitative data manipulation skills such as advanced Excel spreadsheet capability.
• We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic about the UW, has a strong work ethic, and exercises sound judgment, professionalism, and maturity.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Must be flexible and have the drive to work in a fast-paced office.  
• During recruitment season and through the year, this position requires the availability to work evenings and some weekends; travel to remote locations with occasional overnight stays; and load and transport admissions materials, displays, and other equipment. 
• Travel to rural parts of WA state with occasional overnight stays. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.