Assistant Director of Academic Operations
About The Position
The Assistant Director of Academic Operations supports the implementation and ongoing administration of Cornell University’s School of Continuing Education academic programs, with primary responsibility for the academic and administrative operations of the Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) program. Reporting to the Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, this role coordinates academic operations and cross-functional processes that support SCE programs and students. In partnership with the head of SCE’s Student Services team, the Assistant Director helps ensure academic policies, program requirements, and related processes are implemented effectively. The role serves as the primary Academic Affairs liaison to Cornell colleges, schools, academic departments, faculty, eCornell, and other university stakeholders. It oversees academic program administration and student progression workflows, supporting students from matriculation through degree completion. The Assistant Director develops and maintains relationships with SUNY and other university and community college systems to improve student transitions into the BPS program. The role oversees the review and evaluation of degree applicants and may coordinate temporary staff during peak processing periods. It requires judgment in resolving complex academic and operational issues, implementing university policies and procedures, recommending policy and process improvements, and coordinating cross-functional activities that support student success and program effectiveness. This is a full-time position based in Ithaca, New York. Work is fully onsite during the initial onboarding and training period, with the possibility of a hybrid arrangement afterward based on business needs and supervisor approval. Core business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; the specific schedule is determined with the supervisor. Visa sponsorship and relocation are not available.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education administration, academic operations, accreditation, quality assurance and assessment, course coordination, or related areas; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional academic projects or initiatives.
- Knowledge of student lifecycle processes, including admissions, registration, financial aid, advising, or student records.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to navigate complex institutional environments and build productive working relationships across organizational boundaries.
- Experience working with student information systems, CRM platforms, or similar enterprise systems.
- Experience modeling values that support inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing.
- Submit a resume and cover letter.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree and 3–5 years of relevant experience.
- Experience with adult learners or professional education and online education delivery.
- Knowledge of Cornell University.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate academic operations and cross-functional processes supporting SCE programs and students, with primary responsibility for the BPS program.
- Partner with the head of SCE Student Services to ensure academic policies, program requirements, and related processes are implemented effectively.
- Serve as the primary Academic Affairs liaison to Cornell colleges, schools, academic departments, faculty, eCornell, and other university stakeholders.
- Oversee academic program administration and student progression workflows from matriculation through degree completion.
- Develop and maintain relationships with SUNY and other university and community college systems to improve student transitions into the BPS program.
- Oversee the review and evaluation of degree applicants.
- Coordinate temporary staff support during peak processing periods as needed.
- Resolve complex academic and operational issues using judgment.
- Implement university policies and procedures and recommend policy and process improvements.
- Coordinate cross-functional activities that support student success and program effectiveness.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
