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Academic Advisor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

George Mason University

Academic Advisor

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

The Academic Advisor engages students in interpreting and applying George Mason University and the Costello College of Business programs and services, requirements, policies and procedures. Evaluates ...

Umd

Academic Advisor

College Park, MD · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

The Academic Advisor reports to the Assistant Director of the Office of Student Services and is primarily responsible for delivering comprehensive academic advising to all education majors, including ...

University of Maryland

Academic Advisor

College Park, MD · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

The Academic Advisor reports to the Assistant Director of the Office of Student Services and is primarily responsible for delivering comprehensive academic advising to all education majors, including ...

University of Maryland

Academic Advisor

College Park, MD · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Summary The Academic Advisor will provide academic advising for students admitted to the Smith School's Undergraduate Program. This includes meeting with a caseload of advisees and administering ...

Umd

Academic Advisor

College Park, MD · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Summary The Academic Advisor will provide academic advising for students admitted to the Smith School's Undergraduate Program. This includes meeting with a caseload of advisees and administering ...

Umd

Academic Program Coordinator

College Park, MD · On-site

Summary The Coordinator, Student Services and Advising will coordinate all the activities of the ... One (1) year of experience in higher education, academic advising, student personnel administration ...

The Washington Center

Program Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$58K - $64K/yr

The Program Advisor plays a critical role in preparing university students participating in The Washington Center's (TWC) academic programs, including the Academic Internship Program and other short ...

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All JobsAcademic Advisor JobsAcademic Advisor Jobs in Reston, VA

Academic Advisor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$30.2K

$49.4K

$67.1K

How much do academic advisor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic advisor in Reston, VA is $49,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $53,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an academic advisor do?

Academic advisors provide advice and guidance to students about their educational choices at secondary schools and in colleges and universities. This position may be a full-time job, or the advisors may also work as a classroom teacher or professor. At the college level, students typically choose an academic advisor in their major department, although the school may also have general academic advisors who assist students to understand graduation requirements and course selection and help them identify overall education goals.

Is an academic advisor an entry level job?

An academic advisor can be an entry-level position, especially for those with a bachelor's degree and strong communication skills. However, many roles may require some experience or a related master's degree, and advancement often involves gaining experience or additional certifications such as NACADA membership.

What is an academic advisor?

Academic advisors are professionals who help students navigate their educational journey at colleges or universities. They assist with course selection, academic planning, and understanding graduation requirements. Advisors also provide guidance on career paths, internships, and other academic opportunities, ensuring students make informed decisions. Their support helps students stay on track for graduation and make the most of their educational experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Advisor, you typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in education, counseling, or a related field, along with knowledge of academic policies and degree requirements. Familiarity with student information systems (such as Banner or PeopleSoft) and advising management platforms is important. Excellent interpersonal skills, active listening, and problem-solving abilities help foster positive relationships and guide students effectively. These competencies ensure students receive accurate guidance, support, and resources to achieve their academic and career goals.

How hard is it to become an academic advisor?

Becoming an academic advisor typically requires at least a bachelor's degree, often in education, counseling, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, interpersonal abilities, and knowledge of academic policies; some positions may prefer or require a master's degree or certification. The process involves gaining experience in education or counseling and understanding institutional systems, but overall, it is considered accessible with proper education and skills.

What is the difference between Academic Advisor vs Academic Counselor?

AspectAcademic AdvisorAcademic Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often a master's in education or counselingBachelor's or master's degree in counseling, psychology, or education
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, advising students on course selection and degree planningEducational or mental health settings, providing guidance on academic and personal issues
Employer & Industry UsageColleges and universitiesColleges, universities, and sometimes community programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in academic planningDistinguishing counseling vs advising roles

While both roles support students' academic success, Academic Advisors primarily focus on course selection and degree pathways, whereas Academic Counselors often address broader personal and emotional challenges impacting academic performance. The roles may overlap, but their core functions and training differ slightly.

How does an academic advisor typically collaborate with faculty and other campus departments to support student success?

Academic Advisors often work closely with faculty and various campus departments to ensure that students receive comprehensive support. This collaboration may include coordinating on academic progress concerns, connecting students with tutoring or counseling services, and assisting with curriculum planning. Advisors frequently attend interdepartmental meetings and may serve on committees focused on student retention and graduation initiatives. This teamwork helps create a network of resources, enabling Advisors to guide students effectively toward their academic and career goals.
More about Academic Advisor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Academic Advisor jobs in Reston, VA? For Academic Advisor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Academic Advisor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Academic Advisor job openings:
Academic Advisor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Advisor job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,369 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Academic Advisor

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: Costello College of Business
Classification: Education Support Spec 3
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Pay Band: 04
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
The Donald G. Costello College of Business at George Mason University is one of the largest business schools in Virginia, and is located near Washington, D.C., in Arlington and Fairfax, and at George Mason's global campus in Incheon, South Korea. The college's AACSB-accredited business and accounting curricula prepare undergraduate and graduate students from the U.S. and across the globe for career success in business and government. Its research-based faculty and focus on multi-disciplinary academic programs, inclusive entrepreneurship, modular education, experiential learning, and corporate partner engagement are transforming the landscape of business education and workforce development. Learn more at business.gmu.edu.
About the Position:
The Academic Advisor engages students in interpreting and applying George Mason University and the Costello College of Business programs and services, requirements, policies and procedures. Evaluates students' academic progress, provides guidance in determining students' academic interests and objectives and aids them to develop long-range academic and career plans. Provides academic advising for a large population of undergraduate business students. Develops quality programs to identify and support students' academic problems and career choice difficulties. Plans innovative and high-quality programs and events to enhance students' academic development and interests and to prepare students to meet today's job market demands.
Responsibilities:
Student Interaction
  • Provides academic advising during the day and limited evening in individual consultations, group events or presentations, and tabling, for current and aspiring business students on such topics as major or minor choice, curriculum selection, study skills, scholarship and club opportunities, and other academic-related areas;
  • Plans and implements academic-related events and performs outreach to business students for retention efforts;
  • Develops programs and workshops on academic planning, orientation, and academic status for academic development;
  • Develops, disseminates and maintains resources to assist students with academic planning and development of academic/career/professional knowledge and skills;
  • Coordinates complex activities to support student academic planning;
  • Understands and implements proper use of rules and procedures concerning confidentiality;
  • Provide accurate interpretations of policies and procedures for students, families, and faculty; and
  • Assist with the processing of graduation audits, notify students of discrepancies and follow up with them on options.

Educational Program Development and Planning
  • Develops and manages student services program operations, establish goals, develop and implement methods to evaluate and assess program effectiveness, and modify policies and procedures to enhance the overall efficiency of the office;
  • Represents the Costello College of Business as a liaison to academic areas and as asked on various committees across the university to support Costello initiatives;
  • Supports the supervising Director with the creation and implementation of designated services for the Costello undergraduate populations; and
  • Provides feedback for updates to Costello College of Business online materials to reflect changes in policies and programs.

Database Management
  • Maintains accurate and timely student records in Patriot Connect, including advising notes, tags, email communications, and appointment availability;
  • Utilizes Patriot Connect database to create and/or participate in campaigns for targeted outreach to select students;
  • Utilizes Banner INB student information system to review student transcripts, records, course registration history, and entering course overrides; and
  • Manages program-specific inboxes, listservs, and learning management system organizations.

Special Events and Projects
  • Creates and manages special events and projects as assigned by leadership in the Office of Student Success and Academic Services;
  • Actively participates in a minimum of two professional development experiences each year to stay current with best practices and enhance effectiveness in the role; and
  • Executes special projects and duties assigned to support the department.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Generally, 1-2 years of professional, internship, or student-leadership experience involving direct customer service, client relations, or student-facing interaction;
  • Experience interpreting and explaining complex policies, rules, or guidelines to a diverse audience;
  • Experience managing data entry, tracking records, or maintaining email inboxes using professional software or database tools;
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening and the ability to effectively engage with students from a wide diversity of backgrounds;
  • Excellent presentation skills;
  • Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills;
  • Relationship skills: teamwork, collaboration, networking, development;
  • Technology Skills: Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, data/reporting tools, AI tools, use of internet;
  • Ability to develop, implement and manage academic programs and services;
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently;
  • Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team both within and outside the department; and
  • Demonstrated ability to organize workshops, events, or small-scale programs while balancing multiple administrative tasks independently.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in related field;
  • Generally, 1+ years of direct experience in higher education, specifically within academic advising, student affairs, registrar services, or admissions;
  • Experience managing a large caseload of students or clients in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment;
  • Experience evaluating program effectiveness or developing administrative workflows to improve student support services;
  • Knowledge and technical proficiency utilizing higher education platforms such as student information systems (SIS)/student record databases (e.g., Banner) and CRMs; and
  • Ability to manage a large, diverse caseload of students independently and collaboratively in a fast paced, detail-oriented environment.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for Academic Advisor at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.
Posting Open Date: July 2, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by: July 16, 2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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