Advisor - Academics

South Dakota State University is seeking an Academic Advisor who is passionate about helping students succeed. In this role, you will be a trusted resource for students as they explore their academic goals, navigate degree requirements, and prepare for graduation. You’ll also play a key role in welcoming new students, creating meaningful first impressions, and sharing the opportunities our programs offer. By connecting with prospective students and supporting current students throughout their journey, you’ll make a lasting impact on their experience at SDState.

This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position. SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs, and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. The Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering has a rich history of success in fulfilling its land-grant mission in teaching, research, and outreach.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

About the role

The Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering emphasizes problem-solving, research, and collaboration with industry and government partners. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and access to cutting-edge resources, while faculty have opportunities to engage in applied research and industry-focused projects that make a real-world impact.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive academic advising and student support for undergraduate students within the various programs in the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering.
• Advise students on academic planning, career exploration, and graduation requirements to support their success from orientation through degree completion.
• Meet assigned students at least once a semester to guide them for course selection, prerequisites, and registration to ensure timely progress toward degree completion.
• Monitor student academic performance, identify students who may be at academic risk, recommend appropriate interventions, tutoring, academic support services, and success strategies.
• Explain university policies, academic regulations, and engineering college requirements.
• Assist students with registration, schedule adjustments, withdrawals, and academic petitions when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate advising records and documentation and conduct degree audits to verify progress toward graduation.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for undergraduate students and communicate important academic deadlines, policy changes, and program updates.
• Provide proactive outreach to students experiencing academic difficulties and develop strategies to improve retention, persistence, and graduation rates.
• Lead orientation sessions and college events that create a welcoming and engaging experience for new students.
• Connect with prospective and admitted students through campus visits, outreach, and follow-up communication to support recruitment and retention goals.
• Develop and employ recruitment strategies, including school visits, college fairs, and community engagement, to share opportunities within the college.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to enhance the student experience and strengthen program outreach.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and flexible benefits.
• Retirement plans with 6% matching.
• 10 hours of annual leave each month and 9.34 hours of sick leave each month.
• Eleven paid holidays.
• Access to internal and state-sponsored training.
• Reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.
• Relocation benefits available per university’s guidelines.

Requirements

• An earned bachelor’s degree by the position start date.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with students in a student-centered environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire and a willingness to travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• An earned master’s degree in education, engineering, or a related discipline.
• Prior experience in academic advising or a similar role.
• Experience in recruiting undergraduate students.