Strategic Director, Career Center & Development

University of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Houston-Downtown invites visionary, student-centered leaders to apply for the Executive Director, Career Center and Professional Development. You will lead career readiness and experiential learning, shaping employment outcomes for a diverse student population while partnering with employers, alumni, faculty, and community partners.

This strategic role requires strong leadership, data-driven program design, and the ability to expand internships, externships, and career events

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum of seven years of related professional experience.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute a comprehensive vision for career and professional development programs across the university.
• Develop innovative initiatives that connect students, faculty, alumni, and employers through career fairs, networking events, internships, externships, and career readiness programs.
• Cultivate and strengthen partnerships with corporate, nonprofit, government, and community organizations.
• Oversee employer engagement strategies that expand internship and employment opportunities for students and graduates.
• Lead a team of career development professionals dedicated to supporting students across all academic colleges.
• Develop data-informed strategies and assessment measures to enhance career outcomes and institutional effectiveness.
• Promote student success through career counseling, professional development resources, and workforce readiness programming.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Organizational management

Relationship-building

Team leadership

Communication & presentation

Decision-making

Knowledge of career services (NACE/NC-

Education

Master’s degree

Doctoral degree (preferred)

Job description

University of Houston-Downtown invites visionary, student-centered leaders to apply for the Executive Director, Career Center and Professional Development. You will lead career readiness and experiential learning, shaping employment outcomes for a diverse student population while partnering with employers, alumni, faculty, and community partners.

This strategic role requires strong leadership, data-driven program design, and the ability to expand internships, externships, and career events