About the Role
This position provides academic, cultural, and wellbeing support to undergraduate students studying at the University of Otago. Responsibilities include organising co-curricular activities, supporting student engagement, and contributing to the overall operation of IFSA's New Zealand programs.
You will work independently from home, with support from the Director for New Zealand Programs (based in Christchurch). You may also collaborate with colleagues across Oceania and with IFSA's Global Health, Safety & Wellness, Academic Programs, and Student Engagement teams.
Hours are flexible and can be arranged across multiple days in consultation with the Director. The role requires regular interaction with students on campus and at activities and excursions, and occasional weekend work will be required.
Candidates must be available for increased on-site hours during January and February 2027, including supporting program activities around the Otago region from 6-18 January 2027.
Key responsibilities
Organising and coordinating excursions, co-curricular activities and orientations for University of Otago students
Conducting appreciative advising with students, including one-on-one consultations and regular check-ins with students to assess their experiences and help resolve problems
Monitoring students' integration and well-being through regular in-person communication and campus visits
Contributing to emergency response and student incident management based on established protocols
Completing welfare checks if required
Supporting the planning and delivery of short-term, faculty-led, and custom academic programs within New Zealand
Supporting academic management of programs, including the course registration process, appreciative advising, and student learning plan consultations
Helping to cultivate and model practices and behaviours that reflect IFSA's organisational commitments of inclusive excellence, intercultural agility, individualized learning and enduring impact
Building on established relationships with university and accommodation providers, expanding our network of contacts that support students
About you
One to two years of work experience; desired industries include study abroad, higher education, hospitality, tourism, non-profit
Contagious enthusiasm for IFSA's mission, vision and commitments
Strong time management and planning skills, with the ability to work independently to execute time-sensitive tasks and duties successfully
Strong attention to detail in managing program and administrative data
Success in engaging with and supporting students with diverse lived experiences
Flexibility and ability to adapt and thrive in ambiguous and changing situations and to shift focus and reprioritize work as needed
An ability to respond calmly and professionally to emergency situations
General knowledge of the New Zealand university system and student life
Undergraduate degree preferred but not required; working towards a tertiary qualification desirable
The legal right to work in New Zealand
Benefits
Flexible work arrangements and an appreciation for work/life balance
About us
IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad), a US-based nonprofit organization, creates global learning environments to help students gather the critical perspectives, knowledge, and skills essential for future success. With innovative programming and world-class support, IFSA delivers future-focused study abroad options in 17 countries and 48 cities around the globe. Our commitments to inclusive excellence, intercultural agility, individualized learning and enduring impact are present in every aspect of our programs. Inclusion is a driving passion of our organization. We are committed to building a community where the thoughts and opinions of all team members are valued and contribute to our collective success, just as we build programs with the same focus.