Assistant Director for Student Transition and Engagement - Dietrich College

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our outstanding institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce versatile alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration

From creative writing to statistics and data science, behavioral economics to social and political history, Dietrich College is home to 11 humanities and sciences departments, programs and institutes. Our world-class faculty and students work across subject areas to investigate and solve real-world problems.

We are seeking to hire an Assistant Director for Student Transition and Engagement. This role supports the holistic success of new and continuing undergraduate students at Dietrich by developing, implementing, and assessing programs and events that foster engagement and retention.

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Student Success, this position is responsible for managing orientation, transition initiatives, and engagement opportunities that support students through essential developmental stages: from prospective student to first-year student, and on to student leader.

• Coordinate and execute the College’s recruitment programming for admitted students and their families, including the outreach process and development of content that showcases the unique value of pursuing a degree in Dietrich College
• Design, implement, and assess the academic orientation experience specifically for incoming Dietrich College students, with a focus on connection, academic advising preparation, and community building. Serve as a liaison to and collaborate with the University's orientation team.
• Assist in the curriculum development and administration of the college's first-year seminar course, ensuring a smooth transition for new students into academic life. Serve as the instructor of record for one or more sections of the course each semester.
• Provide leadership and direct supervision for the college’s student ambassador program, including recruitment and selection, training of student leaders, scheduling, and ongoing professional development.
• Serve as the primary advisor and mentor for key Dietrich College student organizations including the activities board, responsible for planning and executing high-impact events that enhance student affinity and belonging within the College.
• Expand the number of student-faculty interaction events in Dietrich College in a way that promotes meaningful interactions and builds a sense of cohesion across the campus
• Provide oversight of programming logistics, including scheduling, budget tracking, vendor contracts, event planning, and program evaluation.
• Support data-driven decision-making by coordinating reports and maintaining organized systems for program documentation.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders in the college to align shared goals and enhance coordination between departmental and college-wide initiatives.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the Dietrich College. Collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, or a related field is preferred but not required.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience working in a student-facing role within higher education (e.g., student activities, admissions, residential life, academic advising).
• Demonstrated understanding of student development theory and best practices in creating inclusive environments and fostering a strong sense of belonging.
• Experience in program design, implementation, and assessment for college-level students.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong relationship building skills, organization and planning skills, and problem solving and reasoning skills.
• Willingness and ability to work occasional nights and weekends to support major student-focused programs (e.g., Orientation, admissions events, student organization events).
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

• Successful background investigation

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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