Student Assistant - Orientation Leader

About Us

Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation. Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres is the University of West Georgia- a hidden gem approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta. Serving approximately 16,000+ students, and offering more than 100 programs, UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student-centered business model. Perennially ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction as a top national university, West Georgia offers 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication and digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. UWG generates a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and provides a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post-graduate career and leadership opportunities. UWG has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to community engagement through teaching, research and creative activities, and public service. West Georgia is one of only 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the elective classification in 2020 and is among only 359 institutions nationally. Dedicated to creating a first-choice university for students, alumni, employees, and communities, UWG seeks employees who will advance and support the Universitys mission of fulfilling the talent needs of western Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area, while contributing to the social, cultural, and economic development of the region and state.

The University of West Georgia offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support faculty and staff across multiple dimensions; health, wellness, financial security, and professional growth. Employees working at least 30 hours per week gain access to a range of health plans, including medical, dental, and vision, wellness programs, and robust retirement options through Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), Optional Retirement Program, and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees are granted 13 paid holidays and paid time off accruals and are eligible to participate in the University System of Georgias Tuition Assistance Program. Fringe benefits include a variety of resources focused on employee physical, mental, financial, and social well-being through Acentra Employee Assistance Program in addition to personal financial advising with Captrust. UWG also offers exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment, travel, and other products and services through the Perks at Work program, free access to the university recreation facility, discounted campus dining options, and more!

Living in Carrollton, "The City of Dreams," offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region.

At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus.

The city embraces the Universitys students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community.

Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Job Summary

Orientation Leaders (OLs) serve as student leaders and program assistants for the University of West Georgias New Student Orientation program. OLs help create a welcoming and engaging experience for incoming students and their families/supporters while introducing them to the UWG campus, resources, and Wolf Experience!

This is an hourly position that requires a commitment to training, preparation, and all assigned Orientation sessions during the summer.

Required Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours for both the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
• Must have and maintain a valid drivers license.
• Must be available to work all assigned Orientation sessions and required training dates.
• Must be available to attend mandatory weekly training sessions on Fridays from 3:00¿5:00 p.m., beginning in February.
• Must have no in-person classes during the summer Orientation season. Online summer courses are permitted, but students must ensure coursework does not interfere with Orientation responsibilities.
• Must demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to commit to the time and responsibilities required of the position throughout the summer.
• Orientation responsibilities must take priority during the summer. Extracurricular activities, summer courses, and other employment must be scheduled around assigned Orientation responsibilities.
• Must be available to assist with Unpack the Pack during freshman move-in weekend.
• Must be willing to participate in all required training, preparation, and recruitment activities as assigned.

Physical Requirements/ Working Conditions

• Orientation Leaders will perform duties in both indoor and outdoor settings for extended periods of time.
• The position requires frequent walking, standing, and other physical activities necessary to accomplish program objectives.
• Orientation Leaders must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and interacting with large groups of students and families/supporters.
• The position may require early mornings, late evenings, and occasional weekend responsibilities.
• Orientation Leaders must be able to adapt to changing schedules and assist with various tasks as needed throughout the Orientation season.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of one or more campus resources or departments
• Experience working in a leadership position/supervisory role

Required Documents to Attach

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Serve as a positive role model for incoming students by displaying responsibility, maturity, and professionalism.
• Assist with the preparation, planning, and implementation of New Student Orientation activities.
• Facilitate and maintain a small group of approximately 10¿20 incoming students during Orientation sessions.
• Acquaint incoming students with the UWG campus, resources, traditions, and student life.
• Encourage incoming students and families/supporters to participate in Orientation activities by leading by example.
• Serve as a mentor, host, leader, networker, and motivator throughout all Orientation programs.
• Assist with check-in, event setup, breakdown, and other assigned Orientation responsibilities.
• Attend all required training sessions and Orientation dates.
• Assist with Unpack the Pack, the freshman move-in weekend program.
• Wear all uniform materials provided by Event Planning & Experiences, including the OL polo, nametag, and other required materials.
• Perform other reasonable duties and assignments that support the success of the Orientation program.

USG Core Values

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as 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.

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 the University of West Georgia as determined by the University of West Georgia in its sole discretion; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials, reference checks; 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 individuals age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status ("protected status"). No individual shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any USG program or activity because of the individuals protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individuals protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.