Professional Advisor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

About Us
Savannah State University established in 1890, is the first public historically black college or university in the state of Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. The university's students select majors from five colleges:
Business Administration
Education
Engineering and Computing
Media, Arts, and Communication
Science and Humanities
The campus is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. The moss-laden sweeping oak trees, expansive marsh and historic architecture create a resplendent yet tranquil atmosphere. Beneath the beauty and splendor is a vibrant residential campus bursting at the seams with the vim and vigor of quality collegiate life: relevant academic majors, engaging lectures, cutting-edge research, quality student-faculty engagement and a nurturing environment.
Job Summary
Reporting to the Program Director, this position supports student achievement, persistence, and retention by providing comprehensive academic advising and success coaching to admitted students. This position monitors student academic progress, identifies barriers to success, and develops individualized academic plans designed to promote timely degree completion and academic excellence. The incumbent serves as a key resource for students by facilitating educational programs, connecting students with campus support services, and ensuring awareness of academic policies and enrollment requirements. The role collaborates with faculty, staff, and campus stakeholders to coordinate student success initiatives and deliver targeted interventions that enhance student engagement and retention.
Additionally, the position contributes to the planning and execution of enrollment, orientation, and retention programs, including New Tiger Enrollment Sessions, Week of Welcome, and other student success initiatives. The incumbent supports departmental effectiveness through data reporting, program assessment, staff training, and ongoing monitoring of student outcomes, while working closely with the Program Director to discuss student needs and performance.
NOTE: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not offer sponsorship for employment visas.
Responsibilities

• Monitor student progress
• Provide academic advisement to assigned students
• Provide academic support to assigned students
• Implement Appreciative Advisement model for students
• Coordinate success workshops on time management, study skills, test taking, etc. to students
• Use EAB Navigate to schedule meetings, respond to student progress reports, schedule meetings, communicate with faculty and staff and schedule tutoring
• Maintain FERPA and privacy of students and their records
• Attend all staff meetings and trainings as outlined in the advising handbook and by advising coordinators

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors in counseling, education, psychology or special education.
• Prior experience working with college students in advisement or providing academic support will be considered in lieu of required Bachelor's degree in specific area.
• Great oral and written communication skills.
• Willingness to work with students who are academically at-risk and collaborate with various campus entities.
• Ability to perform in high pressure, fast-paced environments
• Must be able to work flexible hours (nights and weekends) and annual training is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Experience with Banner, EAB Campus and PAWS (or similar software) highly recommended.

Proposed Salary
The proposed salary for this position is $43,900.00 annually.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of Savannah State University and Board of Regents policies and procedures
• Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures
• Knowledge of student information systems
• Skilled in the use small office equipment, including copy machines or multi-line telephone systems
• Skilled in using computers for data entry
• Skilled in using computers for word processing and/or accounting purposes
• Ability to learn department policies and procedures
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and an orientation towards customer service
• Ability to organize, and communicate effectively
• Ability to maintain constructive and cooperative working relationships with others
• Ability to cooperate with fellow employees as a team member

Apply Before Date
Review of applications will begin upon receipt. For best consideration, apply by August 20, 2026.
Contact Information
For more information or questions about a job posting, please contact the Department of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu. For technical support, please call the USG Service Desk at (877) 251.2644, or email support@usg.edu.
USG Core Values
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Institutional Values
At Savannah State University, five core values shape everything we do:

• Belonging - Building a community where all voices are valued and respected.
• Collaboration - Working together across disciplines and communities for shared success.
• Discovery - Pursuing knowledge, research, and exploration that expand horizons.
• Excellence - Committing to superior achievement in every endeavor.
• Resilience - Rising stronger through challenges with determination and adaptability.

These principles guide our culture, inspire our teams and define the kind of workplace we strive to build; one where every individual can thrive, contribute, and grow.
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Savannah State University, as determined by Savannah State University, its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG). The Board of Regents prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual's age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status ("protected status"). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any USG program or activity because of the individual's protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual's protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.
All employment processes and decisions, including but not limited to hiring, promotion, and tenure, shall be free of ideological tests, affirmations, and oaths, including diversity statements. The basis and determining factor for all such decisions should be that the individual possesses the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the role, and is believed to have the ability to successfully perform the essential functions, responsibilities, and duties associated with the position for which the individual is being considered. At the core of any such decision is ensuring the institution's ability to achieve its mission and strategic priorities in support of student success.
For questions or more detailed information regarding this policy please contact the Savannah State University, Office of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu. Individuals requiring disability related accommodations for participation in any event or to obtain print materials in an alternative format, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hr@savannahstate.edu.
Special Applicant Instructions

• Applicants must upload a list containing the name, email address and telephone number of three (3) professional references (e.g. supervisor, colleague, mentor).
• Applicants must attach transcripts to the application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Official transcript is required upon hire.