Experiential Learning and Industry Engagement Coordinator

Job Purpose

The Coordinator serves as a collaborative member of the Career and Professional Development team, supporting connections between the university and the professional community. The role focuses on coordinating employer engagement efforts, supporting internship programs (including the Community Works initiative), and assisting with career outcomes data collection and reporting to help prepare students for meaningful professional careers.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

•  Employer Engagement: Coordinates outreach to businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations to support development of a robust network for internships, job opportunities, and advisory feedback.
•  Internship Coordination: Assists with university-wide internships, including policy development, site evaluation, and student guidance.
• Instruction & Curriculum: Coordinates and facilitates the Interdisciplinary (INST) Internship Preparation Course to equip students with essential professional skills.
• Data & Assessment: Administers the inaugural First Destination Survey and manages career outcomes data to support institutional accreditation and strategic planning.
• Technology Management: Serves as primary support for the Handshake platform, including logistics, training, and data integrity
•  Program Enhancement: Supports the growth of the Student Assistance Program (First Check) and manages the V-Top Career Mentor training for faculty and staff.
• Strategic Collaboration: Partners with academic and administrative units to integrate experiential learning across the student experience.

 

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's required; Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
• Experience: 3–5 years of experience in career services, employer relations, or experiential learning.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Handshake (or similar platforms) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis.
• Core Competencies: Demonstrated ability to support partnership building, project management, survey design, and classroom instruction.

Preferred

• Direct experience with Handshake administration and analytics.
• Knowledge of NACE standards and First Destination Survey methodology.
• Experience in curriculum development, grant writing, and overseeing  student staff.
• Strong understanding of how a liberal arts education connects to modern career readiness.

 

This description is to be regarded as a general overview of the responsibilities required for this position. It is not intended as a contractual agreement; other related duties may be assigned. 

About Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University (vwu.edu) is Coastal Virginia's premier university of the liberal arts and sciences. Situated on a 300-acre park-like campus in Virginia Beach, VWU annually enrolls more than 5,000  learners in all programs in all locations, including nearly 1,700 students in undergraduate, graduate and online programs. Students thrive in average class sizes of 12, and nearly 90 percent of new graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of graduation. Through its Environmental Guiding Principles, the University incorporates a commitment to sustainability in every aspect of campus life. VWU is an inclusive community dedicated to scholarship and service grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, inspiring students to build meaningful lives through engagement in Coastal Virginia's dynamic metropolitan region, the nation and the world.

Location

Virginia Wesleyan has often been defined by its desirable and unique location in Coastal Virginia. Located in Virginia Beach, the University is just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay on a beautiful 300-acre park-like campus. The area is home to a host of business, governmental, and cultural institutions, as well as rich historical and natural resources. Nestled in the heart of one of Virginia’s largest metropolitan areas, Virginia Wesleyan is physically insulated from the bustle of the city traffic, and yet the vast resources of its surrounding urban area are easily accessible. Our region is proud of its vibrant city life, sandy beaches, and rich history. Learn more at  visitvirginiabeach.com/explore.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Virginia Wesleyan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered on the basis of skills, experience, and qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, creed, gender, national and ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, the presence of non-job-related medical disability, or any other legally protected status.