Senior Cohort Program Manager

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 66,850 - 94,427; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental benefits

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Wellness programs

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Boston seeks a Senior Cohort Program Manager to oversee the Pathmaker program, training high school graduates in essential life sciences skills. This full‑time position involves recruiting students, providing learner support, and administering program data. The role requires a Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of relevant experience, emphasizing interpersonal and communication skills. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, vision, and tuition assistance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in student services, program management, or workforce development.
• Experience working with diverse populations and first-generation college students.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary point of contact for learners throughout their training experience.
• Interview prospective students to assess readiness, motivation, and fit for the program.
• Plan and execute program celebrations and recognition events.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Data collection

Analytical skills

Empathy

Education

Bachelor's degree or relevant training

Job description

Senior Cohort Program Manager

About the Opportunity

JOB SUMMARY: Northeastern University College of Professional Studies seeks a dedicated Senior Cohort Manager to support the Pathmaker program – a state‑funded initiative designed to train high school graduates in Massachusetts in essential life sciences laboratory skills. Pathmaker is a comprehensive training program that provides high school graduates with foundational life sciences laboratory skills. The program aims to create pathways into the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries by preparing participants for roles as laboratory technicians and quality assurance technicians in Massachusetts’ thriving life sciences sector.

This full‑time, two‑year term position plays a critical role in guiding learners from program entry through successful placement in entry‑level laboratory technician and quality assurance positions. The role will actively recruit and select students for the program, support students throughout their training experience, build community among participants and stakeholders by planning engaging program activities and events, and assist with administrative tasks. It will also administer, track, analyze, and report on program data, including student progress throughout the program and post‑graduation employment outcomes to continuously improve program efforts. The hybrid role is based on the Boston campus with occasional travel to the training facility in Burlington, Massachusetts. It requires standard business hours with occasional evening and weekend event participation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge and skills typically acquired through a Bachelor's degree program or relevant training program or work experience
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in student services, program management, or workforce development
• Experience working with diverse populations and first‑generation college students
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to provide empathetic support while maintaining professional boundaries
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Experience with administrative systems and database management
• Knowledge of the Massachusetts life sciences industry (preferred)

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Learner Support Services (60%)

• Serve as primary point of contact for learners throughout their training experience
• Assist students with Northeastern University administrative processes and paperwork
• Provide short‑term emergency assistance including travel support and resource connections
• Offer emotional support and guidance to help learners overcome personal and academic challenges
• Connect students with appropriate campus resources and support services
• Facilitate connections between learners and career coaches for career development and job placement
• Track post‑graduation employment outcomes and maintain alumni relationships

Student Recruitment and Selection (20%)

• Interview prospective students to assess readiness, motivation, and fit for the program
• Evaluate candidate applications and make selection recommendations
• Conduct orientation sessions for new cohorts
• Maintain accurate records of applicant pools and selection outcomes

Build Community – Event and Program Planning (10%)

• Plan and execute program celebrations, recognition events, and milestone ceremonies
• Foster a supportive cohort environment that encourages peer‑to‑peer learning
• Coordinate group activities that build professional networks among participants
• Serve as liaison between learners, faculty, and industry partners

Administrative Support and Reporting (5%)

• Prepare program reports for state funding agency
• Track and document learner progress, completion rates, and outcomes
• Collect and analyze program data to support continuous improvement efforts

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

Additional duties as assigned by the program director.

Position Type

Academic Administration

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education, and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit‑eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, and commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type

109S

Expected Hiring Range

$66,850.00 – $94,427.50

How to Apply

To apply, visit https://northeastern.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/careers/job/Boston-MA-Main-Campus/Senior-Cohort-Program-Manager_R136019