Special Assistant for Academic Planning & Administration

New England Conservatory • Boston, MA

375d • $68,000 - $70,000

About The Position

The Special Assistant for Academic Planning & Administration at the New England Conservatory of Music plays a crucial role in supporting the administrative and financial functions of the College, particularly in relation to faculty compensation, support, evaluation, and course scheduling. This position involves collaboration with various departments to manage faculty contracts, payroll, and budget processes, ensuring effective communication and data management to facilitate institutional decision-making.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and prior experience in higher education, arts administration, or non-profit management.
• Experience in budgeting, payroll, and financial analysis required; experience in accounting is a plus.
• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Excel is essential.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies and communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems creatively and resourcefully.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in using data to craft compelling narratives aligned with institutional goals.
• Understanding of and commitment to cultural equity and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Manage the College faculty contracting process in collaboration with Dean and Chief Academic Officer, Human Resources, and Finance.
• Prepare, produce, and distribute approximately 250 contracts annually.
• Collaborate with the Dean/CAO and other departments to support the annual College budget process.
• Confirm faculty teaching loads and the broad structure of course schedules in collaboration with department chairs and the Registrar.
• Maintain and update College faculty compensation data based on strategic institutional plans and departmental needs.
• Lead and support innovations in systems and processes to streamline workflows and ensure data accuracy.
• Prepare monthly faculty payroll, including adjustments and one-time payments, in collaboration with the finance team.
• Communicate payroll information to faculty and respond to inquiries.
• Review faculty contracts and compensation for equity and compliance with the Faculty Manual.
• Manage the Faculty Professional Development Fund and related initiatives to support faculty development.
• Track eligibility and manage the annual sabbatical application and review process.
• Support the Dean/CAO in preparing reports for Faculty Council, Board of Trustees, and accreditors.
• Perform other duties related to faculty administration as assigned.

Benefits

• Sabbatical opportunities
• Professional development support

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree