Strategic Graduate Programs Operations Leader

Penn State University; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University, located at University Park, seeks an experienced Director of Graduate Program Operations to support the Huck Institutes' Graduate Education team. The role will supervise staff and oversee multiple interdisciplinary programs, ensuring policy alignment and efficient operations.

The position reports to the Managing Director and collaborates with program chairs, faculty, students, and university partners, driving improvements in processes and program outcomes.

Qualifications

• Experience in graduate education or graduate program administration.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary or multi-unit academic environments.
• Knowledge of academic policy, curriculum, admissions, student records, or Graduate School processes.
• Experience with process improvement, strategic planning, or financial management in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and operational oversight for a portfolio of interdisciplinary graduate programs.
• Coordinate admissions, student services, curriculum and course processes, scheduling, student milestones, and program events.
• Serve as a resource to graduate program chairs, faculty, students, and staff regarding program operations and University policies.
• Supervise, train, coach, and support academic program and administrative staff.
• Establish priorities, coordinate workloads, and promote consistent and effective program administration.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and develop solutions to operational challenges.
• Lead or participate in projects and initiatives affecting multiple graduate programs.
• Monitor program budgets and assist with financial planning and expense tracking.
• Build effective relationships with University partners and support Graduate Education strategic initiatives.

Skills

Process improvement

Strategic planning

Financial management

Staff supervision

Education

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Penn State University, located at University Park, seeks an experienced Director of Graduate Program Operations to support the Huck Institutes' Graduate Education team. The role will supervise staff and oversee multiple interdisciplinary programs, ensuring policy alignment and efficient operations.

The position reports to the Managing Director and collaborates with program chairs, faculty, students, and university partners, driving improvements in processes and program outcomes.