Student Support Specialist Center for Global Engagement (Part-Time)

Working Title: Student Support Specialist - Center for Global Engagement (Part-Time)

State Role Title:Education Support Specialist II

Position Type:Part-time - Wage / Part-time Salaried

Position Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: N/A

College/Division: Center for Global Engagement

Department: 100148 - CGE Administration

Pay Rate:Minimum Starting

Specify Range or Amount: $22 per hour

Is this a JMU only positionNo

Is this a grant-funded positionNo

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated positionNo

Beginning Review Date:1/5/2026

About JMU:

At James Madison University (JMU) were more than just a publicly funded institution were a vibrant welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation collaboration and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:
Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation sick leave parental leave community service leave and 19 paid holidays annually.
Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources events and support.
Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU we believe in Being the Change and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow contribute meaningfully and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: Information:

The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) is seeking a Student Support Specialist with strong professional experience and a polished service-oriented approach to supporting students and families. The Student Support Specialist serves as a key point of contact for study-abroadrelated questions that come through the offices communication channels and supports students and families throughout all stages of the study abroad process.

The role provides clear and friendly initial guidance supports communication and preparation before students depart assists with first-level communication while students are abroad and helps facilitate re-entry support upon their return.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Respond to study abroadspecific inquiries forwarded from the main office including phone messages emails and walk-in referrals offering helpful and professional guidance.
Provide first-level advising on program options application steps scholarships timelines and common logistical questions.
Serve as a primary contact for communication with students who are abroad helping triage questions or concerns and ensuring they are routed promptly and appropriately to advisors or CGE leadership.
Communicate confidently with parents and families addressing frequently asked questions about safety program logistics and overall expectations.
Support the advising team by tracking inquiries assisting with documentation organizing program information and directing students to the correct advisor or resource.
Assist with pre-departure preparation including communicating requirements related to orientations passports/visas insurance and deadlines.
Provide support for events such as information sessions orientations and outreach activities by preparing materials providing on-site assistance and occasionally representing the study abroad office through brief presentations or public speaking.
Contribute to re-entry communication and support for returning students.
Collaborate with student peer advisors offering guidance on day-to-day tasks and assisting with their onboarding and training helping ensure they have the information and support needed to assist students effectively.
Help maintain a welcoming organized and service-focused environment for all individuals engaging with study abroad services.

Qualifications:

Professional experience in customer service administrative support advising or another communication-focused role
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact comfortably and confidently with both students and parents
Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a busy office setting
Comfort working both independently and collaboratively with staff

Additional Considerations:
Experience working in higher education or student services
Experience living working or studying abroad
Familiarity with intercultural communication concepts
Experience with Terra Dotta or similar database management systems

Additional Posting Information:

Work Schedule & Compensation
2029 hours per week
Flexible scheduling during regular business hours
Compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age color disability gender identity or expression genetic information national origin parental status political affiliation race religion sex sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access inclusion and diversity for all students faculty staff constituents and programs believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: .

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at or You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office located at 752 Ott Street Harrisonburg VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.