Assistant Director of the Innovation Center
About The Position
The Assistant Director of the Innovation Center is responsible for the technical implementation, daily operations, and programmatic coordination that enables the Center’s mission. Reporting to the Director, this role ensures that the Center functions effectively as an accessible, well-managed, and technically capable environment. The Assistant Director serves as an interdisciplinary generalist and program manager, translating strategic direction into executed programs, functional systems, and user-facing experiences. This includes overseeing the Center’s physical space, supervising student staff, coordinating events, supporting grant development, and contributing selectively to technical projects. The Assistant Director will also work with the Director of the SPARK Center.
Requirements
- Experience in computer programming
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, student-facing environment.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Experience supervising or coordinating the work of others.
- Ability to plan and execute events or programs.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Basic technical proficiency and comfort learning new tools, systems, or equipment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Ability to be able to lift at least 25lbs.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily operation of the Innovation Center’s makerspace and open work environment.
- Ensure the space is welcoming, functional, and aligned with the Center’s values of accessibility and community.
- Manage equipment, including setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Coordinate ordering, receiving, and inventory of supplies and technology.
- Administer and oversee services such as 3D printing workflows.
- Serve as a point of escalation for general and technical inquiries beyond the scope of student staff.
- Supervise student employees staffing the Center.
- Manage scheduling, shift coverage, and daily task assignments.
- Train staff in customer support, equipment use, and technical assistance.
- Oversee student-led activities such as help desk support and interactive tech exhibits.
- Plan and execute workshops, events, and programming, including all logistics for the Innovation Center and SPARK Center (scheduling, setup, promotion, and follow up).
- Track participation, usage metrics, and program outcomes for Innovation Center and SPARK Center including the SPARK Scholar Passport Program.
- Maintain software platforms and technical systems supporting Center initiatives.
- Support development of prototypes, exhibits, and internal solutions.
- Contribute to technical projects aligned with individual expertise and Center priorities.
- Assist in identifying funding opportunities.
- Support the preparation and submission of grant proposals.
- Contribute technical descriptions, implementation plans, and supporting materials.
- Manage social media presence, focusing on visual and promotional content (e.g., Instagram, YouTube).
- Coordinate documentation of events and activities (photos, videos, summaries).
- Collaborate with campus media (e.g., student newspaper, University Communications team) to promote Center visibility.
- Maintain internal documentation, schedules, and operational records.
- Track and report Center usage, engagement, and activity metrics.
- Support preparation of reports and materials for university leadership.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefit package for faculty and staff employees.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
