Harper College·Palatine, Illinois
The Academic Advisor provides educational planning and case management for students to monitor progress toward their educational goals. They also assist with transfer planning, career development, and various student support services.
This role provides educational planning for new and currently enrolled students by developing an academic map that meets the specific needs of each individual. Advisors in this classification are responsible for case management of assigned students designed to proactively monitor their progress toward completing educational goals. This role also provides general guidance for students that support advising, transfer, and career development.
Provides educational planning for new and currently enrolled students. Assists them by creating semester-by-semester academic course schedules that meet the requirements of their intended major and, if applicable, transfer school. Documents all educational planning interactions on appropriate forms.
Responsible for case management of assigned students in which a meaningful rapport is developed. Conducts proactive outreach and monitors assigned students’ progress toward completing their educational goals.
Interprets placement scores, explains developmental course sequencing and recommends appropriate courses for students’ intended plan of study.
Helps students with their transfer planning and explains course transfer differences between institutions.
Explains stackable career pathways.
Collaborates closely with Counseling Services and Hawks Care per established guidelines, determines when students need to be referred to Counselors.
Assists students with educational transactions (i.e., schedules, drop/adds, withdrawals, waivers, etc.).
Answers questions about College policies, procedures, academic programs of study and support services provided by the College. Helps students resolve issues by clarifying protocols and directing them to appropriate offices/personnel.
Instructs students on how to use online and self-service academic planning and career development tools. Interprets degree audit reports.
Serves as lead to assist walk-in traffic to the Center and demonstrates how to utilize software, programs, websites and Center library/lab resources. Creates users’ manuals.
Develops and maintains advising and career resources in print and online including web, portal and social media.
Conducts outreach (e.g., phone calls, campus “walk-abouts”) to students in support of retention-based programming efforts like early alert, summer bridge, etc.
Works with a variety of technology tools (i.e., Student Information System, appointment scheduler, degree audit/planner, etc.) and is able to use these tools effectively to assist students.
Represents the Student Affairs division at student outreach events (i.e., open houses, activity fairs, information sessions, etc.) as necessary.
Serves as lead contact to receive and respond to incoming Center alias emails. Answers those that fall within Academic Advisor purview and refers others to Counselors as needed.
Makes referrals to faculty, academic program chairs/coordinators, campus support services, or other resources as needed.
Maintains professional rapport with students, parents, faculty and staff throughout the College.
Stays current with training and professional development related to academic advising, student success/retention, multicultural competencies, and related topics.
Assists with various projects and programs as needed and participates in College and Divisional Committees as appropriate.
Performs related duties as assigned. Academic Advisors associated with specific support centers (i.e., Women’s Program, Center for New Students, etc.) may have duties and expectations specific to that center.
Work is primarily indoors and sedentary in nature.
Utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, in order to perform the duties of the job.
Under the general supervision of the Director of Advising Services or Director of New Student Programs. Receives oral and written instructions as needed.
We are Harper College…the college in your community.
The College was established by referendum in 1965 and opened September 1967. It is named for Dr. William Rainey Harper, a pioneer in the junior college movement in the United States and the first president of the University of Chicago.
Harper College is now one of the nation’s premier community colleges and one of the largest, serving approximately 29,000 students annually in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The College’s academic programs prepare students for rewarding careers and for transfer to four-year universities. Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce training, professional development, continuing education classes, accelerated degree options for adults and developmental education programs.
At Harper College, we are committed to fair and equitable compensation for all employees.
In compliance with Illinois state law, we prioritize transparency in salary information.
Our salary ranges reflect our dedication to attracting and retaining top talent while ensuring equitable pay practices.We encourage open discussions about compensation and invite you to reach out with any questions you may have regarding salary details.
Harper College typically offers compensation up to the median market rate for this position.
We aim to ensure our pay is competitive while aligning with both the role's requirements and the candidate's experience.
To review all benefit information visit us at:
A bachelor's degree in psychology, education, communications, or a related field is required, with a master's degree preferred. Candidates must have at least one year of experience in a student advising or related educational setting.
Market context
Academic advisor openings in Illinois are often tied to student retention, transfer support, and financial aid guidance, so employers look for candidates who can help students navigate academic and administrative processes. This role is competitive because it requires a master’s degree, three years of higher-education advising or coaching experience, and strong communication, financial aid, and database skills. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then tailor your application to show inclusive, collaborative advising experience.