Academic Coordinator/Advisor

Position Summary

Reporting to the Associate Director of the Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute (VTLCI), the Academic Coordinator/Advisor provides academic and administrative support for the Intensive English and AdvantageVT programs. This position serves as a central resource for  student advising, academic coordination, and instructional support. Responsibilities include advising students, assisting with curriculum and accreditation processes, coordinating J-1 English interviews and assessments, managing textbook orders, and overseeing the Conversation Partner Program.

The Academic Coordinator/Advisor may also teach courses as needed, substitute teach, and support faculty and administrative initiatives related to program development, assessment, and reporting. The position maintains student records, contributes to program planning and operations, and participates actively in professional development and staff training.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Education (preference given to TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Linguistics, or field closely related with TESOL certification—minimum 18 graduate credit hours).
• Significant experience working with English as a Second Language (ESL) learners in a university or intensive English program setting.
• Experience in academic advising for international or ESL students.
• Demonstrated experience supporting academic coordination or administrative processes in higher education.
• Strong technological proficiency and ability to learn new systems (e.g., Canvas, Excel, data collection, and survey tools).
• Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of and experience with curriculum design, assessment, and program evaluation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience working, teaching, or studying in an international or intercultural environment.
• University-level teaching experience, particularly in ESL, EAP, or pathway programs.

Core Competencies

• Cross-cultural communication and sensitivity in working with international populations.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Initiative and flexibility in managing multiple priorities.
• Collaborative problem-solving and teamwork in an academic environment.
• Commitment to inclusive and student-centered advising and instruction.

Responsibilities

Student Advising and Support

• Serve as an academic advisor for IEP and AdvantageVT students, providing guidance on academic progress, course selection, and cultural adjustment.
• Maintain advising and student progress records in accordance with program and university guidelines.
• Coordinate with academic departments to enroll students in credit bearing classes
• Work with Cranwell and Undergraduate admissions to ensure seamless transfer of students to VT after LCI program completion.

Administrative and Program Coordination

• Coordinate and assist with placement testing, J-1 English interviews, student data collection, reporting, and survey administration.
• Assist with curriculum development, assessment, and accreditation processes.
• Organize and implement student orientation and graduation sessions.

• Oversee the Conversation Partner Program and support student engagement activities.

• Support the directors with the Annual Review of Operations, strategic planning, and accreditation documentation.
• Manage textbook orders and instructional resource inventories.

Instructional Support and Teaching

• Substitute teach as needed.

Professional Collaboration and Development

• Participate in program meetings, training, and professional development activities.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff in a collegial and team-oriented environment.
• Contribute to continuous program improvement and innovation.