Part-Time Program Administrator IV, Academic Affairs

Rice University•Houston, TX

9h•$70,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Administrator IV advances the School of Engineering and Computing’s Academic Affairs function by implementing and managing programs that contribute to the school’s academic priorities and student-facing initiatives. This role oversees a portfolio of programs and processes related to scholarships, student engagement, and academic programming, ensuring effective coordination, execution, and continuous improvement. Working in close partnership with the Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, the Program Administrator IV manages complex, cross-functional initiatives and helps align program operations with broader academic and strategic goals. This position plays a key role in evaluating existing processes, identifying opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness, and developing and implementing solutions that enhance program delivery and stakeholder experience. The ideal candidate is an experienced professional who brings sound judgment, initiative, and a strong sense of ownership to their work. They are skilled at managing competing priorities, navigating complex environments, and building effective working relationships across a broad range of stakeholders, including faculty, students, and central administrative partners. They bring the ability to both manage programs effectively and contribute thoughtful improvements that strengthen operations and support broader academic affairs goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Three or more (3+) years of relevant experience managing work across multiple priorities and stakeholder groups
Advanced problem-solving, critical thinking, and sound judgment
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to varied audiences
Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects in a dynamic environment
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to synthesize information and support informed decision-making
Strong client service orientation and ability to cultivate and manage collaborative partnerships
Knowledge of budgeting principles, financial planning, and resource management

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field
Experience identifying and implementing improvements to processes, workflows, or program operations
Experience supporting or managing budgets, financial planning, or resource allocation
Experience working in complex organizational environments or on high-visibility initiatives

Responsibilities

Leads the coordination and administration of Academic Affairs programs and initiatives, including scholarships, student engagement activities, and academic programming, ensuring alignment with school priorities and consistent, high-quality execution.
Evaluates and improves program operations and processes, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of program delivery.
Takes the lead on complex, cross-functional initiatives, coordinating across faculty, departments, and central administrative offices to ensure alignment, clear communication, and successful execution.
Develops and implements strategies related to outreach, events, and stakeholder engagement, including planning and overseeing large-scale academic events and student-facing initiatives.
Manages scholarship and award processes, including coordination, tracking, reporting, and continuous refinement of processes to support accuracy, transparency, and stakeholder needs.
Develops reports and analyzes data related to programs, scholarships, and student initiatives to inform decision-making, support leadership needs, and communicate outcomes to internal and external stakeholders.
Leads or supports the development of program-related communications, including reports, presentations, and materials for faculty, leadership, and external partners.
Coordinates and strengthens partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, student organizations, development, communications, and industry partners, to support program goals.
Oversees financial aspects of program operations, including monitoring budgets, tracking expenditures, supporting financial planning, and coordinating with administrative partners to ensure effective use of funds.
Provides guidance and direction to student workers or temporary staff, as needed, to support program activities and ensure continuity of operations.
Contributes to short- and long-term planning efforts within Academic Affairs by identifying trends, anticipating needs, and recommending program enhancements aligned with strategic goals.
Performs all other duties as assigned in support of program success and the broader objectives of Academic Affairs.