Assistant Director (UT GUIDES 2018 Project Director)

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

7d•$85,000

About The Position

The Institute for Public School Initiatives (IPSI) is a center within the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin. In support of the mission of the college which is focused on addressing responding to pressing challenges in education and health, IPSI commits resources and services to preparing students to achieve their academic potential; helps students and families increase their college awareness, readiness, and success; and provides educators and leadership with high-quality professional learning by designing and facilitating rigorous, engaging professional development content. The university provides employees a competitive benefits package that includes health insurance (premiums covered 100% for full-time benefits-eligible employees), retirement plans, and paid leave, in addition to other programs and services. This position is fixed-term, and the expected end date is September 30, 2026, with the possibility of renewal and extension of the appointment depending on funding and performance. Reporting to the Senior Director of Operations at the Institute for Public School Initiatives (IPSI), the Assistant Director (UT GUIDES 2018 Project Director) will oversee the federally-funded college readiness GEAR UP project awarded in 2018. The position will provide direction and leadership for the project, which is in a no cost extension year, to help ensure successful implementation and closeout.

Requirements

Master’s degree in related field such as Education, Business Administration, or Public Affairs/Administration.
8+ years of experience administering K-12 or higher education student services or academic development programs.
Experience with federal programs and grants.
Experience working with multiple partners in a program or major service delivery project.
Excellent knowledge of college readiness issues and challenges facing low-income, first-generation student populations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Extensive knowledge of the administrative structure of a large research university.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience as a program director, assistant director, or comparable position.
Previous experience with GEAR UP.
Experience with grant and contract development, writing, and submitting proposals.
Previous supervisory experience.
Familiarity with UT Austin systems and contracts processes.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and direction for UT GUIDES 2018 grant activities, ensuring successful implementation and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Responsible for supervising, motivating, and empowering College Success Coaches. Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to direct reports, supporting their professional and personal growth. Conduct annual performance appraisals.
Manage annual budget. Monitor spending, review/approve requests, and ensure grant expenditures are allowable and that progress is being made toward the required match/in-kind commitment. Collaborate with the IPSI business team to develop and implement contracts.
Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with partners, including businesses, institutions of higher education, and community organizations. Lead communications among grant partners and manage contracts. Act as a liaison with community organizations to meet program requirements.
In collaboration with the external evaluator and IPSI data & research team, oversee all data collection and reporting on the grant, including Final Performance Report (FPR).
Represent IPSI/UT GEAR UP at national/statewide conferences, directors’ meetings, and other convenings. Inform stakeholders about GEAR UP outcomes and identify and create opportunities to share success stories.
Develop and implement actions to enhance project value. Troubleshoot challenges and determine actions with the team.
Other related functions as assigned.