Admissions Counselor I

Job Posting Title: Admissions Counselor I Job Description: Overview: The Admissions Counselor is an integral member of the Admissions team, primarily focused on Admissions Advising, Processing, and Recruitment. Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) was founded in 1997 as the first higher education institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to education and research related to the applied life sciences. KGI offers innovative postgraduate degrees and certificates that integrate life and health sciences, business, pharmacy, engineering, and genetics, focusing on industry projects, hands-on industry experiences, and team collaborations. KGI employs an entrepreneurial approach and industry connections that allow students to become leaders in healthcare and the applied life sciences. Located in beautiful Claremont, California, KGI is a member of the Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges, two graduate institutions, and The Claremont Colleges Services, which provides shared institutional support services. Each nationally recognized college has its own campus, students and faculty, and distinctive mission, and each offers top-notch curricula, small classes, distinguished professors, and personalized instruction. The Claremont Colleges consistently place at the top of national college rankings, including Forbes, Money and U.S. News and World Report, and the Princeton Review. Education and Experience: A Bachelors degree and a minimum of one year of job-related experience are required, preferably in the area of recruitment and/or admissions in higher education. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position may be considered. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: Individuals must possess knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the position, or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions may be performed, with or without reasonable accommodations, using some other combination of skills and abilities. Admissions Advising and Processing - 70% Review transcripts, course descriptions, and related documents to determine alignment with prerequisite requirements. Evaluate personal statements, letters of recommendation, professional experience, and other application components. Conduct one-on-one appointments with prospective students. Ensure the processing of all applications and the communication of admissions decisions in a timely manner. Demonstrate superior customer service and accuracy in advising prospective students. Independently compose memos, reports, and other written correspondence using correct spelling and grammar, paying attention to accuracy, and orienting toward customer service. Provide content for equivalency guides to the Senior Admissions Counselor and/or Director of Admissions. Perform GPA calculations. Adhere to the Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in the performance of all duties and responsibilities. Assist and work with graduate assistants on the admissions team. Recruitment - 20% Present the value of KGI programs to prospective students and applicants. Responsible for achieving individual enrollment goals for assigned programs. Conduct recruitment presentations and attend Graduate/Career Fairs as assigned. Utilize a welcoming and engaging approach to answer questions about the program and admission requirements accurately. Follow up with students from recruitment events. Provide campus tours to prospective students. Make phone calls and participate in other outreach to support recruitment efforts. Plan and execute virtual sessions with prospective or incoming students. Assist with Visitation Days and other on-campus events. Other - 10% Work on special projects as assigned. Assist with the coordination of the Summer program. Support administrative needs of the Admissions and Outreach departments. Manage the Department email inbox and distribute inquiries to the appropriate party. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Individuals must possess knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential function of the position, or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions may be performed, with or without, reasonable accommodations, using some other combination of skills and abilities. The position demands competence and experience with computers and computer systems software, including proficiency in spreadsheet and presentation applications (MS Office Suite preferred). Demonstrated ability to coordinate, especially Microsoft Office applications, and particularly Excel, Word, Publisher, PowerPoint and Outlook. Demonstrated ability to utilize general guidelines to interpret their application to individual files or student scenarios. Analytical skills to gather data and analyze information. Experience giving oral presentations to small and large groups. Demonstrated sensitivity to working with students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds. Ability and commitment to interacting in a welcoming and engaging manner with all constituents. Demonstrated writing skills to independently compose letters, memos, and other written communication for various audiences, using correct spelling and grammar, oriented towards a sales and/or related function. Commitment to superior customer service. Ability and commitment to interacting and communicating respectfully and effectively within an Admissions team and with all students, faculty, staff, and constituents. Must work cooperatively and congenially with colleagues. Strong work ethic and sense of adaptability. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to take direction and work both independently and as part of a team. Pro-active, reliable approach to assigned responsibilities, with responsiveness to prioritize according to department needs. Commitment to maintaining FERPA requirements at all times. Strong attention to detail and accuracy, as well as effective organizational skills. Ability to handle a high-volume environment and balance responsibilities while maintaining a respectful demeanor. Some evening and weekend hours are required. Occasional travel to regional or national special events may be necessary. Hours, Classification, and Status: This is a regular, full-time, benefits-eligible, non-exempt position. The regular hours of this position are Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Hours may vary due to the needs of the College or department. Pay rate: $24.00 - $27.00 an hour. The hourly rate of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training. KGI offers a comprehensive compensation and benefit package. To learn more, visit https://services.claremont.edu/benefits-administration/ Physical and Mental Requirements Ability to maintain a good concentration level while dealing with interruptions; attention to detail with emphasis on accuracy; capable of giving, receiving, and analyzing information, formulating work plans, and articulating goals and action plans. Sitting in a normal seated position for extended periods of time. Standing for extended periods of time. Reaching and extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction. Finger dexterity is required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than the whole hand(s), or arm(s), for example, using a keyboard. Communication skills using the spoken word. Ability to see within normal parameters. Ability to hear within normal parameters. Ability to bend and stoop, for example, to file. Ability to move about. Ability to lift and carry short distances up to 20 lbs., for example, to lift or move office supplies, files, books, and packages. Ability to travel locally as needed to meet business requirements, which may include driving or other modes of transportation. Occasionally, will be required to stand for prolonged periods of time at activities/events on and off-campus. To Apply: A confidential review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. To be ensured full consideration, please upload a letter of interest, resume, and at least three professional references (a manager, a direct report, if applicable, and a coworker). Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: Keck Graduate Institute is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate against qualified employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state or federal law. Equal employment opportunity will be extended to all persons in all terms and conditions of employment. Employment Eligibility: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without employer sponsorship. No visa sponsorship is available from Keck Graduate Institute. KGI is a participating employer in E-Verify and uses the system to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees as required by federal law. For more information about E-Verify, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Keck Graduate Institute, a member of The Claremont Colleges, is a graduate institution dedicated to advancing human health through innovative education, applied research, and meaningful industry collaboration. Since its founding in 1997, KGI has built a strong reputation for preparing thoughtful, forward-thinking leaders equipped to address the evolving challenges of healthcare and the life sciences. KGIs academic programs are housed within three distinctive schools: the Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences, the School of Pharmacy, and the School of Health Sciences. The Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences prepares graduate students for careers in life sciences and biotechnology through interdisciplinary learning, research engagement, and real-world problem solving. The School of Pharmacy prepares future pharmacists and pharmacy leaders through a rigorous, patient-centered curriculum grounded in clinical excellence and hands-on practice. The School of Health Sciences offers graduate programs in occupational therapy, physician associate studies, and genetic counseling, with a strong focus on collaboration, leadership, innovation, and patient-centered care. Across all programs, KGI emphasizes applied learning, critical thinking, and collaboration. Students gain practical experience through lab work, research projects, clinical placements, and partnerships with industry and community organizations. This approach ensures graduates leave KGI not only academically prepared, but also adaptable, confident, and ready to contribute from day one. At KGI, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Our culture is supportive, collaborative, and people centered. Faculty and staff work together in a close-knit environment where ideas are welcomed, contributions are valued, and professional growth is encouraged. Every role plays a vital part in shaping the student experience and advancing meaningful solutions that improve lives. Joining KGI means becoming part of a purpose-driven community where your work truly matters. If you are looking for a place where your talents can make a difference, Keck Graduate Institute offers a dynamic and fulfilling environment to grow your career and make a lasting impact.