Manager, University Relations

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics; Reston (VA); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive healthcare coverage

Generous paid time off

403(b) retirement plan with company match

Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Education benefits and professional development opportunities

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

A leading aerospace organization is seeking a Manager of University Relations to expand its footprint across universities, engaging with students and faculty. This role involves strategic planning and relationship-building, requiring 5-7 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree. The candidate should possess strong communication skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office. A hybrid work environment and comprehensive benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of professional experience in university relations or higher education outreach.
• University relations experience required; nonprofit experience preferred.
• Experience in building relationships across academic and professional communities.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute a strategic plan to expand AIAA's university footprint.
• Lead university engagement strategy and cultivate relationships.
• Coordinate university outreach efforts at conferences and events.

Skills

Relationship-building skills

Strategic planning

Project management

Communication abilities

Public speaking

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Job description

Advancing the Future of Aerospace Through Education and Engagement

AIAA - the world's largest professional society dedicated to aerospace advancement - is seeking a Manager, University Relations to lead our efforts in building stronger bridges between academia and the aerospace industry.

This is a unique opportunity for a passionate relationship-builder who wants to shape the future of aerospace by engaging students, universities, and educators in AIAA's mission to ignite innovation and leadership across air and space disciplines.

What You'll Do

As the Manager of University Relations, you'll design and execute a strategic plan to expand AIAA's footprint across universities and community colleges - ensuring every aspiring aerospace engineer and professional has a path to connect with our global community.

You will:

• Lead AIAA's university engagement strategy - growing student branches, memberships, and partnerships nationwide.
• Cultivate relationships with faculty, student leaders, and academic departments to strengthen AIAA's presence on campuses.
• Revitalize and support student branches, ensuring active participation and leadership development.
• Collaborate with AIAA committees including the Committee on Higher Education and Student Branch Committee, aligning programs with academic and industry priorities.
• Coordinate university outreach efforts at conferences, career fairs, and student events - serving as AIAA's on-campus ambassador.
• Develop engagement metrics to track and enhance program success.
• Partner with marketing and communications to spotlight student branch achievements and promote programs across digital channels.
• Manage budgets and administrative operations supporting student branches and engagement activities.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• At least 5-7 years of professional experience working in university relations, student engagement, or higher education outreach.
• Proven relationship-building skills across academic and professional communities.
• Strong strategic planning, project management, and communication abilities.
• Excellent public speaking and facilitation skills (in person and virtual meetings).
• University relations experience required; some association or nonprofit experience preferred, especially in volunteer or member-driven organizations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Position requires travel up to 10-12 times per year to visit campuses and represent AIAA at key events.

Why Join AIAA:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical (PPO and HSA plans), dental, and vision)
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, parental leave, and bereavement
• 403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% company match
• Short-term & long-term disability coverage
• Education benefits and professional development opportunities
• A hybrid work environment (two in-office days per week, three remote)

Ready to Launch Your Next Mission?

Join AIAA and help us empower students and universities to reach new heights in aerospace and aviation.

About AIAA

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is the world's largest aerospace technical society, uniting nearly 30,000 members and 100 corporate members across 91 countries. AIAA drives innovation and collaboration in aviation, space, and defense by fostering connections between industry, academia, and government. To learn more, visit www.aiaa.org.

AIAA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and ensure equal consideration regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

Pre-employment screening, including background checks and credential verification, may be required.