Program Manager I, Student Life

Charles R. Drew University • Los Angeles, CA

20d • Onsite

About The Position

The Student Life Program Manager leads programs, services, and initiatives that support student engagement, well-being, and community development while also managing the operational systems that keep student-life functions running smoothly. This role combines program leadership, staff supervision, facilities coordination, and administrative operations to ensure a high-quality student experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 3 years of experience coordinating educational programs and activities in a higher education institution, supporting leaders, executives, or managers.
• One (1) year as an Executive Secretary preferred.
• Experience in the coordination of staff and students, including experience working in conjunction with HR.
• Also strongly prefer experience working with diverse partners and cultural sensitivity.
• Experience with interpreting operating policies and procedures and resolving minor discipline and other employee relations issues within an academic setting or institution.
• Must be able to work on multiple tasks simultaneously and have strong time management skills.
• Must have strong organizational skills, be detail-oriented, and can work collaboratively on administrative, and community-partnered teams.
• Ability to develop and maintain professional working relationships in complex program/organizational settings involving heterogeneous constituents such as academic and clinical faculty, staff, students, and community partners from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Applications, including but not limited to Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Ability to apply a high degree of judgment, description, and initiative in coordinating activities/student events.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, communication, and computer skills are required.
• Initiative to seek alternative approaches to solutions.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse community.

Nice To Haves

• Basic/working knowledge of the Spanish language.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate student life programs, events, and initiatives that promote belonging, leadership, and holistic development.
• Assist Student Engagement Coordinator with advising student organizations, clubs, and student leaders; ensure compliance with institutional policies.
• Coordinate new student orientation, support services, welcome events, engagement activities, and act as the main point of contact for student issues.
• Support student well-being through proactive outreach and connection to campus resources.
• Provide guidance to student organizations and create initiatives to improve student satisfaction and retention.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Student Life office, including scheduling, communications, and workflow management.
• Manage operational processes such as event approvals, space reservations, risk management, and student organization documentation.
• Maintain accurate records, databases, and reporting systems for student involvement and program outcomes.
• Monitor student-facing spaces (student lounge and pantry) to ensure they are safe, functional, and welcoming.
• Supervise student staff, interns, and student ambassadors; provide training, coaching, and performance feedback.
• Collaborate with academic departments, student services, and campus partners to strengthen the student experience.
• Participate in committees, working groups, and strategic planning efforts.
• Oversee purchasing, reimbursements, and financial tracking for student organizations.
• Identify opportunities for resource optimization and cost-effective programming.
• Prepares and processes disbursements and related requests, including eRequester transactions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• As a health professions institution of higher education, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science seeks to protect the health and safety of the University community. As a condition of enrollment and employment, students, faculty, and staff must comply with the current CDU COVID-19 requirements as described on the CDU COVID-19 webpage.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level