Academic Advisor - Higher Education

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is representing a distinguished higher education institution in Vereeniging seeking an Academic Advisor. The role focuses on guiding students through course selection, degree planning, and personal development in a hybrid on-site/remote setting.

You will support a diverse student body, monitor progress, and collaborate with faculty and student services to ensure success. A Master''s is preferred and at least 3 years of relevant experience is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, Counseling, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum 3 years in academic advising or student support within a higher education setting.
• Strong understanding of university structures, curriculum and graduation requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic guidance on course selection, degree requirements, and planning.
• Assist students in developing educational and career goals and explore majors/minors.
• Monitor progress, identify at-risk students, and implement interventions.
• Advise on university policies, procedures, and available resources.
• Facilitate workshops on study skills, time management, and career exploration.
• Maintain accurate, confidential student records of advising sessions and progress.
• Collaborate with faculty and services staff for cohesive student support.
• Stay informed about curriculum changes and university initiatives.
• Serve as point of contact for academic questions and referrals.

Skills

Counseling skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Active listening

Education

Bachelor''s degree in Education, Psychology, Counseling, or related field

Master''s degree preferred

Tools

Student information systems

Academic advising software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished institution of higher learning in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking a dedicated and insightful Academic Advisor. This role is pivotal in guiding students through their academic journeys, helping them navigate course selections, career pathways, and personal development goals. The Academic Advisor will work closely with a diverse student population, providing personalized support and resources to ensure their success. This position involves a hybrid work model, blending on-site engagement with remote flexibility. The ideal candidate will possess strong counseling skills, a comprehensive understanding of academic programs, and a genuine commitment to student achievement. Join a vibrant academic community dedicated to fostering student growth and success in the Vereeniging region.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide academic guidance and support to students regarding course selection, degree requirements, and academic planning.
• Assist students in developing educational and career goals, exploring majors and minors that align with their interests and aspirations.
• Monitor student academic progress, identify at-risk students, and implement intervention strategies to support their success.
• Advise students on university policies, procedures, and resources available to support their academic and personal well-being.
• Facilitate workshops and information sessions on topics such as study skills, time management, and career exploration.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records, documenting advising sessions and progress.
• Collaborate with faculty, departments, and student services staff to ensure a cohesive support system for students.
• Stay informed about curriculum changes, new programs, and university-wide initiatives affecting students.
• Serve as a point of contact for students seeking clarification on academic matters and refer them to appropriate resources.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in academic advising, counseling, or student support services within a higher education setting.
• Strong understanding of university academic structures, curriculum, and graduation requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Proficiency in student information systems and academic advising software.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a hybrid environment.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to support student success.
• Experience in crisis intervention or referring students to mental health services is beneficial.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple caseloads.

Benefits

• competitive salary commensurate with experience
• medical aid
• a provident fund
• generous leave

This hybrid role provides a balance of on-campus interaction and remote work flexibility.

You will have access to professional development opportunities and be part of a supportive and dynamic academic environment in Vereeniging, Gauteng.