Graduate Career Coach

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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Department Summary:

The University Career Center inspires and supports students to transition confidently beyond the University of Michigan by creating a dynamic space to gain clarity through their process of self-discovery. The University Career Center team of 21 staff serves about 17,000 unique clients annually, through appointments, workshops, events, career technology and its resources.

Position Summary:

With a focus on doctoral graduate students, contribute in a comprehensive, service oriented career services office with duties related to career education, coaching, and student development needs. Scope of role includes working with an engaging mix of graduate students from across campus (self-discovery and reflection, understanding the world of work, networking, and job/internship search issues) as well as collaboration with Rackham Graduate School colleagues around shared goals. Utilize knowledge of theory, current research, and best practices in student development, career development, multicultural counseling, and job search processes.

Responsibilities*

Career Coaching 80%

• Provide tailored coaching to graduate students on leveraging academic research, teaching, and leadership experiences into potential career opportunities and determining next steps.
• Support graduate students in identifying transferable skills for diverse career paths.
• Support graduate students to successfully implement their job/educational choices through their presentation in resumes and in interviews, use of on and off-campus job search strategies, social media connections, employer/school selection, and negotiation of acceptance.
• Design programming on how to prepare for and maximize internships, fellowships, and project-based learning experiences (as needed).
• Keep accurate and timely records on clients, using the University Career Center platform, and follow up with students.

Team Engagement 20%

• Attend relevant meetings to collaborate and stay up to date with both University Career Center and and Rackham teams.
• Attend regular meetings with supervisor for this role, and graduate coaching team.

Required Qualifications*

• Master's degree in student affairs, counseling or related field (e.g., psychology) with an understanding of theories that assist in supporting students career development.
• 2 years of experience establishing priorities and exercising sound decision-making on relevant issues
• 1-2 years of experience working with graduate students in support of their professional development.
• Experience with diverse student populations, including but not limited to: first-generation students, veterans, students with disabilities, and international students

Desired Qualifications*

• Ph.D. or Ed.D. and/or an understanding of the process of attaining a terminal degree.
• Prior experience or training credentials related to coaching.
• Experience working with graduate students in support of their professional development
• Experience in a large, selective institution.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

This role may have reporting obligations under Title IX and Clery.

Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment and applicants for this position will not be sponsored for work visas.

Selected candidates whose start date is 4/1/2026 or after, will not be eligible for the university FY26-27 salary/merit plan unless otherwise notified.

Salary may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and education of the selected candidate.

Relocation will not be offered for this role.

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Position Responsibilities Criteria (leadership and behavioral qualities expected in this position):

• Demonstrated knowledge of identity theories.
• Demonstrated skill and experience working with graduate students (either through coaching/advising or group programming).
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and efficiently.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills including verbal, writing and listening skills and the ability to relate well to others.
• The ability to contribute to, and learn from, a diverse environment of colleagues and students representing diverse populations
• The ability to effectively integrate technology into service delivery.
• Demonstrated focus on building a culture that supports understanding and enabling equal access for all.

Working Conditions:

This position has the opportunity for a remote or hybrid schedule and may require occasional evening work and the ability to work with a wide range of student concerns.

Physical Requirements:

This position may be required to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while staffing conferences or larger events.

Direct Reports:

This role will supervise student workers such as GSSAs and/or graduate student interns.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.