Job Description

The Assistant Director of Buckeye Link utilizes a comprehensive performance management system to lead a team of nine Buckeye Link Counselors. This includes performance planning, coaching, multi-source feedback, and formal reviews. The Assistant Director consistently fosters collaborative working relationships and promotes a culture of cooperation, engagement, trust, and team spirit. They cultivate leadership in others through mentoring, coaching, recognition, and guidance.


This role addresses personnel and disciplinary matters, monitors performance, and provides ongoing feedback. It ensures effective communication across the team and evaluates workload distribution to align priorities and goals. The Assistant Director reviews the quality of counselor interactions with students, families, and other stakeholders to ensure service standards meet Buckeye Link and university expectations. They identify training needs and implement strategies to support high-quality service delivery.


The Assistant Director participates in hiring processes and, in collaboration with the Buckeye Link Staff Training and Development Coordinator, supports onboarding of new counselors. They facilitate office-wide training, small group sessions, and one-on-one coaching to reinforce service guidelines. During peak periods or staffing shortages, the Assistant Director actively supports office operations and customer service goals, ensuring consistent, accurate, and timely information delivery.


They provide staff with in-depth analysis and guidance, manage escalated and complex cases, and maintain advanced knowledge of the Student Information System (SIS). The Assistant Director stays current on university, state, and federal regulations across admissions, financial aid, student accounts, and student records to support student success.


In partnership with Associate Directors and the Director, they contribute to the evaluation and enhancement of student services aligned with university priorities. They serve as a liaison with key stakeholders across campus to resolve issues and uphold service standards. The Assistant Director monitors operational calendars and deadlines to anticipate peak service times and proactively address student needs.


They assess and improve policies, procedures, and systems to support staff and advance the mission of Buckeye Link and the university. The role includes regular review of performance data and service metrics to drive continuous improvement. The Assistant Director may lead internal projects and serve on cross-university committees, offering input on system and process integration. Additional duties may be assigned.

Required Minimum Education

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education/experience. Deep understanding of university policies and procedures affecting students. Minimum of three years as a Buckeye Link Counselor or equivalent experience. At least five years of experience in admissions, financial aid, student accounts, or student records, with a demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service. Five years of progressive leadership experience, including coaching and performance feedback. Demonstrated alignment with university values.

Salary range for this position is $64,900 - $66,000. The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, unit's available budget, and the candidate's qualifications.



To apply, submit a current resume and cover letter describing your interest and related experience for this position.

Career Roadmap

Function: Academic Administration


Sub-Function: Student Services


Career Band: People Leader - Managerial


Job Level: M2 Manager


Regular 40 First Shift