Programming Associate (Class III)

Purpose or role of the position within the organization.

Orientation Leaders (OLs) are continuing Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW) students who serve as resources, community builders, event organizers, and peer mentors for incoming CSSW students. The primary purpose of the role is to ease the transition of first-year students into CSSW by leading a dedicated group of 15–20 incoming students during Orientation Week and maintaining active peer mentorship and support throughout the full academic year across both virtual and in-person settings.

Duties and responsibilities associated with the position and how they relate to the purpose or role.

The duties directly fulfill the core purpose of building community, facilitating orientation, and maintaining ongoing peer mentorship:

• Group Leadership & Community Building: Lead, guide, and build community within an assigned cohort of 15–20 incoming students, serving as their initial point of contact and peer mentor.

• Orientation Operations & Support: Assist Student Life staff, attend all mandatory Orientation Leader Training sessions, and maintain full presence and activity throughout Orientation Week (July 13–17, 2026 for Advanced Standing; August 31–September 4, 2026 for Fall).

• Event Planning & Execution: Create, promote, host, and implement at least two events/programs per semester for their assigned group, while encouraging participation in broader CSSW and University events.

• Ongoing Mentorship & Student Referral: Maintain regular contact with assigned students throughout the academic year and use training to direct students to the appropriate CSSW or University offices and resources.

• Administrative & Compliance Tasks: Complete required forms, manage administrative duties (including bi-weekly timesheets), attend required meetings/trainings, and comply with University governance and policies.

General qualifications for the position and the specific qualifications for the various levels or rates of pay associated with the position.

General Qualifications

• Academic Standing: Must be in good academic standing at Columbia University.

• University Work Requirement: Must be able to work in-person at Columbia University at least one day per week (applies to both residential and online student hires).

• Skills & Competencies:

  • Demonstrated leadership skills and enthusiasm for CSSW.

  • Strong collaboration, rapport-building, active listening, and problem-solving abilities.

  • Effective communication skills with peers, administrators, and faculty.

  • Experience or interest in virtual and/or in-person event planning.

  • Excellent judgment, innovation, and an understanding of CSSW/University policies and governance.

Pay Rates and Tiered Levels

• Standard Rate of Pay: $20.00 / hour (paid bi-weekly via timesheets).

• Level Structure: The Job Description does not feature multiple pay tiers or rates of pay based on seniority or experience level.