About this role
Position Summary
The Academic Exam & Accommodations Proctor plays a vital role in protecting the integrity of Columbia Law School’s assessment process while ensuring an equitable, accessible, and distraction-free environment for all test takers. In today's academic landscape—defined by secure laptop testing, generative AI policies, anonymous grading, and tailored accommodation plans—the Proctor acts as the primary on-site administrator during final and midterm exam cycles. This position requires high technical literacy to troubleshoot secure testing software (e.g., Exam4), vigilant 0 oversight regarding unauthorized devices and AI tools, and strict adherence to accommodation mandates coordinated with the Office of Disability Services (ODS).
Responsibilities
AI Compliance & Security Oversight (30%)
- Actively monitor exam rooms to ensure strict compliance with Law School academic integrity policies, faculty-specific exam parameters (e.g., Closed-Book, Open-Book, or Limited-Access), and generative AI restrictions.
- Ensure all unauthorized technology (smartwatches, secondary laptops, tablets, phones, generative AI apps, internet browsers, and smart glasses) is fully turned off and stowed prior to the start of the exam.
- Escalate and document potential Honor Code violations, unauthorized device usage, or digital security breaches to the Office of Registration Services immediately using standardized incident reports.
Technical Support & Exam Software Administration (30%)
- Assist students with launching and running specialized secure exam software (e.g., Exam4, ExamSoft) in "Closed," "Open-Laptop," or "Open-Network" modes as designated by the instructor.
- Perform basic, real-time troubleshooting for laptop freezes, software crashes, network connection failures, or password/token errors without disturbing the overall testing environment.
- Work with ORS Staff and IT to immediately identify and facilitate emergency exam transition protocols (wellness, technical, or otherwise).
Accommodations & Inclusive Testing Administration (25%)
- Administer specialized testing accommodations in designated low-distraction environments in full compliance with ODS guidelines (e.g., extended time, stop-the-clock breaks, screen readers, ergonomic setups, or specialized dictation software).
- Track multi-room exam schedules, individual student timing, and rest-break allocations with extreme precision and confidentiality.
- Maintain a professional, empathetic, and calm demeanor when supporting students experiencing high stress or medical accommodations.
Exam Preparation, Room Logistics & Anonymous Grading Integrity (15%)
- Verify student identity via university ID while maintaining strict anonymous grading protocols (ensuring student names never appear on physical or digital exam files).
- Distribute and collect exam questions, scratch paper, and secure upload verification slips.
- Coordinate student sign-outs/sign-ins for brief restroom breaks, ensuring room security and adherence to time limits.
- Help prepare exams for next-day administration
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: High School Diploma required; Bachelor’s degree or current graduate student status preferred.
- Technical Proficiency: Comfort with modern computer operating systems (macOS and Windows), mobile devices, and basic software troubleshooting. Experience with Law School software (Exam4/ExamSoft) is a major plus.
- Attention to Detail: Absolute precision in timing, record-keeping, and tracking individualized accommodation instructions.
- Communication & Demeanor: Calm, authoritative, yet supportive presence under high-pressure conditions; ability to enforce rules diplomatically.
- Ethics: High level of integrity and strict adherence to FERPA and student disability confidentiality rules.
- Seasonal commitment required during primary exam windows (October Midterms (LL.M.s and ILs); December Final Exams (2-3 weeks); April/May Final Exams (2-3 weeks).
- Ability to work early morning, evening, or extended shifts as required by multi-time accommodations.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.