Operations Architect for AI Research Lab

University of Chicago; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 86,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago Knowledge Lab (SSD) is seeking an Assistant Director of Operations to anchor the lab’s operational backbone. This role will design and automate processes, manage budgets, monitor grants, and coordinate onboarding, visas, and post-award activities to keep research moving at pace.

We expect a candidate with 5–7 years in academic operations, a Master’s degree preferred, and hands-on experience with finance, HR, and data visualization to drive continuous improvement and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 5–7 years of work experience in business, research, or academic operations.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Knowledge of finance, HR and planning processes.
• Experience with AI-enabled systems and workflow automation.
• Managerial experience.
• Strong judgment balancing creativity, compliance, and practicality.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement operational systems and dashboards.
• Manage budgets and expenditures; ensure grant compliance.
• Coordinate onboarding of researchers and staff; manage visas.
• Oversee post-award operations and financial reporting.
• Liaise with university partners and procurement.

Skills

Systems thinking

Budget management

Data visualization

AI workflow automation

Education

Master’s degree

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Spreadsheets

Reporting tools

Data visualization

Job description

The University of Chicago Knowledge Lab (SSD) is seeking an Assistant Director of Operations to anchor the lab’s operational backbone. This role will design and automate processes, manage budgets, monitor grants, and coordinate onboarding, visas, and post-award activities to keep research moving at pace.

We expect a candidate with 5–7 years in academic operations, a Master’s degree preferred, and hands-on experience with finance, HR, and data visualization to drive continuous improvement and