Job Description

The New Student Orientation Coordinator leads the mandatory new student orientation experience at Grand Rapids Community College. This individual reports to the Dean and is an essential role within Student Affairs. The coordinator manages the major responsibilities in the delivery of new student programming that increases student access, success and retention, and ensures that students and their supporters have an exceptional entry experience as they begin their college engagement with GRCC.

Requisition ID: 1166

Position Number: 00002002
Employee Group: Professional, Management and Administration
Schedule: 40 hours/52 weeks

Compensation: Grade Level P3 $47,209

Benefits: Full-time
Reports to: Dean of Strategic Outreach

Posting Opens: 8/10/2026

Posting Closes: 8/21/2026

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee the delivery of a year-long mandatory new student orientation program that includes customized sessions in a variety of formats and locations
• Lead the hiring process, training, advising, and supervision of Student Ambassadors (student orientation leaders)
• Coordinate the selection, training, and supervision of new student orientation interns (part time, contingency positions)
• Responsible for managing orientation budget
• Responsible for the lead role in planning and coordinating annual pre-semester events, such as the new student Block Party
• Act as liaison to College services and programs, and manage presenters for program delivery
• Maintain and update all related orientation program content (online orientation content, print materials, communication materials, etc.)
• Monitor Online Orientation assessments to determine if learning outcomes are successfully achieved
• Monitor and provide reports on the show rates and completion rates of the in person and online modules, and make adjustments as needed to reach enrollment goals
• Coordinate the development of communication and promotional materials for New Student Orientation and other relevant communications efforts
• Develop, coordinate, and manage sophisticated communication plans using various software solutions, such as the campus CRM, to actively communicate and move new students through their matriculation and first enrollment period
• Develop and manage surveys to gage student satisfaction for both in person and online program content and delivery
• Contribute to the growth and development of Student Affairs and the college, by participating in team-based committee work, departmental/program planning, and other discipline and college related activities as requested
• Maintain/build expertise in orientation and first year experience programs
• Serve on committees that relate specifically to meeting the transitional needs of first-year students and families
• Serve as the primary contact for student/parent/family concerns and issues related to new student orientation
• Serve as a resource person to maintain a close working relationship with faculty, staff, and administration related to new student orientation and first year experience
• Assist with ongoing student recruitment, enrollment, and student affairs initiatives as needed
• Engage in on-going professional development activities related to new student orientation and first year student success and retention
• This role is a Campus Security Authority (CSA). CSAs will be trained and responsible for reporting Clery Reportable Crimes to Campus Police as required by the Clery Act
• Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for serving customers and performing the essential functions of this position
• Performs other related duties as assigned

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Educational Credentials

• Bachelor Degree required
• Master’s Degree in student affairs or related field preferred
• National Career Readiness Certificate preferred
• Bilingual, English-Spanish preferred, but not required

Work Experience

• A minimum of 2 years, full-time professional experience in higher education, or 2 years of combined higher education graduate assistantship, internship, or practicum experiences
• Experience in a community college that serves a diverse student body is preferred
• Prior experience in coordinating and managing new student programs in a higher education environment such as orientation preferred

Skills

• Detail oriented
• Strong communication skills
• Strong technical skills

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift equipment and furnishings to support major campus events (20-30 pounds)
• Noise level is usually moderate; though at certain events can be loud/very loud

Mental Demands

• Understanding of student assessment tools, data collection, as well as procedures for tracking student and service satisfaction
• Demonstrated ability in planning, marketing, and implementing complex programs and projects
• High level of energy, creativity, enthusiasm and motivation
• Commitment to continuous quality efforts – both organizationally and individually
• Proven problem solving, mediation, and decision-making skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and individuals in a team environment
• Ability to perform functions of the job efficiently and effectively in stressful situations
• Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse student body, staff and members of the larger community
• Possess the personality and enthusiasm to work with students, college staff, and general public
• Proficient in software applications including PeopleSoft, Microsoft Office (MS Word, Excel, Publisher, Power Point), GroupWise
• Ability to take initiative, to follow through, and effectively manage multiple projects in a timely manner
• Excellent public relations and customer service skills

Working Conditions

• Position requires ability to stand/walk for long periods of time
• Ability to travel to the regional campus locations
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate early morning, late evening, and/or weekend activities
• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website

  BENEFITS

• Health Coverage: Six health insurance plan options, including one with no health insurance premiums.
• Time off: Enjoy substantial vacation time
• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options, including the state retirement plan or a 401A with a 12% employer contribution.

• NEXT STEPS / APPLICATION PROCESS

  Please fill out an application at https://www.grcc.edu/jobs Submit a cover letter and resume. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.

  NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

  Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.