Student Services Generalist, The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (DMSE)

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (DMSE) at the University of Virginia is seeking a motivated, organized, and student-focused Student Services Generalist to join our collaborative academic team. This position plays a vital role in supporting both undergraduate and graduate programs, serving as a key point of contact for students, faculty, and staff. If you’re energized by helping students succeed and enjoy managing details in a fast-paced academic environment, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a student advocate and initial point of contact for MSE students, minors, and faculty advisors.
• Provide admissions, recruitment, and registration support for prospective students.
• Support the graduate application process, including preparing offer letters.
• Manage student records, degree requirement submissions, and fellowship awards.
• Administer and award graduate student financial aid, tuition, health insurance, fellowships, and related fees.
• Monitor and maintain fellowship accounts and financial records.
• Support PhD qualifying exam processes and other academic milestones.
• Interpret and apply university policies under the guidance of academic leaders and program offices.
• Recommend and implement improvements to student processes and procedures.
• Maintain and update internal and external web content, including student resources, events, and key dates.
• Collaborate with Engineering Communications to create and update program marketing materials.
• Plan and execute events such as graduation ceremonies, defenses, recruitment activities, research symposia, and student engagement events.
• Coordinate logistics for events, including venue reservations, setup, and administrative support.
• Take a lead coordination role working closely with the Associate Chair for Academics and program directors.

Other duties may be assigned in support of departmental needs.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• At least 2 years of experience in student program support or a related administrative role
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace (Docs, Calendar, Drive, etc.)
• Ability to learn and navigate multiple student systems and software tools
• Self-motivated, flexible, and team-oriented
• Commitment to efficiency, problem-solving, and providing high-quality support
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to diverse student backgrounds

Preferred Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in student-related program support
• Prior experience as a student coordinator
• Familiarity with UVA systems and tools such as:
  • Student Information System (SIS)
  • Stellic
  • Student Aid Funding Module (SAFM)
  • SLATE application portal
  • Perceptive Content
  • Workday
  • Website and social media content management

Additional Information

• This is a primarily in-person role, with flexibility to work remotely one day per week.
• The role involves mostly desk work, with occasional event support that may require light physical activity such as room setup.
• Strong customer service, initiative, and adaptability are essential in this fast-paced, student-centered environment.

About the Department

Founded in 1962, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (DMSE) at UVA delivers innovative research and world-class education in materials science. Our programs include undergraduate minors and majors, as well as MS, MMSE, and PhD degrees. We are committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative academic community.

Learn more about us and the Charlottesville community: Charlottesville & Beyond | Embark

This position will remain open until filled. This is an exempt level, benefited position. The University will perform background checks on all hires (if required) prior to employment. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. For this role, the University will not sponsor or consider candidates requiring sponsorship for employment visas now or in the future. For questions about the application process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter at das6zb@virginia.edu.

For questions about the role, contact Jeannie Reese, Director of Operations at jsv7u@ virginia. edu.

Please apply through the University job board, Careers at UVA , and search for R007466.

Please submit a resume and a cover letter to be considered for this position, applications that do not contain both pieces of information will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs’ or through their ‘Jobs Hub’. Applicants must complete an application online with the following documents: a resume and cover letter.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.