Dean of Workforce Development and Applied Science

Louisiana State University

2d • $80,000 - $110,000

About The Position

The Dean of Workforce Development and Applied Sciences provide visionary leadership and administrative oversight for a diverse portfolio of academic and career-technical programs. This division encompasses Agriculture, Business & Management, Computer Information Technology, Criminal Justice, and Fire & Emergency Services. The Dean is responsible for bridging the gap between academic instruction and economic demand, ensuring all programs ranging from short-term industry certifications to associate degrees are high-quality, fiscally sustainable, and directly aligned with Louisiana's workforce needs. As a key member of the Academic Affairs leadership team, the Dean drives enrollment growth, secures external funding, and fosters high-level partnerships with industry, government, and public safety agencies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in a related field (Business, Agriculture, public Administration, Technology or Education Leadership).
• Five (5) years of progressive leadership experience in higher education, workforce development, or a high-level industry equivalent.
• Proven track record in budget management and personnel supervision.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in a related field (Business, Agriculture, Public Administration, Technology, or Education Leadership).
• 5 years - - Specific experience in Louisiana Workforce Commission initiatives or Louisiana higher education systems.
• Experience launching new technical programs or securing significant external grant funding.
• Background in managing diverse technical programs.
• Experience in a community college or technical college environment.
• Experience working with industry partnerships and workforce training grants.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative oversight for all credit and non-credit programs within the division.
• Lead the rapid development of stackable credentials and micro-credentials that allow students to enter the workforce quickly while progressing toward a degree.
• Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees and technical diplomas in emerging fields.
• Ensure all programs meet SACSCOC accreditation standards and specific program certifications.
• Serve as the primary liaison to regional economic development engines, agricultural boards, and public safety leadership.
• Align programs with regional labor market data and workforce demands.
• Develop short-term credentials, certifications, apprenticeships, and customized training programs.
• Develop revenue-generating contract training and customized workforce solutions for regional business partners.
• Oversee curriculum development, assessment, and continuous improvement processes.
• Modernize curriculum to reflect emerging technologies.
• Ensure effective student learning outcomes assessment and program evaluation.
• Support faculty in innovative teaching practices and instructional technologies.
• Utilize regional labor market data to justify program expansion or sunsetting of outdated offerings
• Develop and manage divisional budgets in coordination with Business Affairs.
• Monitor expenditures, equipment purchases, grants, and workforce training funds.
• Seek and support external funding opportunities including state, federal, and industry grants.
• Ensure efficient allocation of instructional resources, labs, and technology infrastructure
• Supervise department chairs, program coordinators, and faculty within assigned divisions.
• Lead faculty recruitment, hiring, evaluation, and professional development.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies and collective agreements where applicable
• Support recruitment and retention initiatives specific to workforce and technical programs.
• Ensure programs meet state licensing and certification standards (POST, technical certifications, etc.).
• Coordinate program reviews and accreditation reporting.
• Maintain documentation required for audits, state reporting, and grant compliance.

Benefits

• LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees