Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute is searching for an Senior Academic Program Manager to join their team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment.
We are seeking creative and energetic Senior Academic Program Manager that will be responsible for comprehensive program management of a graduate and/or undergraduate program or multiple programs. Involves significant outreach due to interdisciplinary programs or external university or corporate partnerships/collaborations including resolving complexities with interdisciplinary or out-of-Pittsburgh programs. Presents to groups and to larger venues. Uses expertise to deal with exception cases.
Responsibilities:
Advise MSR students regarding course selection, registration, progress to degree, academic goals, and interpreting & navigating university and departmental policies/procedures. Provide quality referrals and general support as needed. Monitor students’ progress to degree. Work closely with the PhD Program Manager for certification of PhD students who obtain their MSR degree along the way. Help with RI schedule building (regarding core courses) to maximize students’ options. Help every student finalize their schedule at the beginning of every semester. Certify degrees upon completion of requirements. Maintain records of internships & career placement data.
If managing a graduate program(s) or executive education program(s), develops strategies for improving demographics and applicant quality. Plans and implements recruiting fairs; oversee admission process; represents the program to external and internal audiences and cultivate relationships with other schools, universities and/or corporate clients.
Manages relationships to facilitate or expand opportunities for interdisciplinary programs; external collaborations/partnerships and education outreach.
Program Maintenance ‐ Work with others in RI/SCS/CMU regarding program needs, guest speakers, web content development, sponsored projects, and corporate relations. Consider impact on the program at all times. Admissions & Program Growth ‐ Coordinate application review, create and monitor committee schedules, disburse decision letters, capture statistics, co‐lead review meetings, develop and/or implement recruitment activities for both committees. Work with SCS Admissions as needed. Handle all aspects of student on‐boarding from March until September.
Responsible for ensuring integrity and quality of program(s) in partnership with director. Ensures all operational aspects of the program, day-to-day and longer term, are managed effectively. Performs related assessment and advisory functions.
Reviews current and emerging academic trends and makes recommendations on enhancements to curriculum.
Reviews operational and academic policies and procedure and incorporates best practices or changes to ensure program effectiveness and compliance.
RI Events ‐ Assist with and/or attend activities for prospective/current students (visit days, orientation, grad student appreciation events, PhD Retreat, etc). Attend the SCS Commencement planning/coordination events and day‐of activities. Responsible for MSR graduating student logistics (registration, attendance, degree distribution, etc). "Supports the Manager of Academic Programs with special projects or assignments as needed. Works with RI Education Team to coordinate planning and arrangements for academic programs, labs, largescale academic events (Open House, Orientation, Graduation, etc) and corresponding special events. Builds alumni network, engagement and events, participates in educational out-reach opportunities. Participate in meetings and take on other special projects as assigned.
Other duties as assigned.
Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree
5-8 years of Academic Advising Experience (Preferred)
5-8 years of Academic Program Management Experience (Preferred)
5-8 years of Teaching/Instruction Experience (Preferred)
Financial Acumen Skills
Strong Organizational and Planning Skills
Strong Problem-Solving and Reasoning Skills
Strong Relationship Building Skills
Distance Education Program Experience
Educational Marketing and Outreach Experience
Are you interested in this exciting opportunity?! Apply today!
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!
Location
Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
Academic Program AdministrationPosition Type
Staff – RegularFull Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- Bachelor's Degree
- 5-8 years of Academic Advising Experience
- 5-8 years of Academic Program Management Experience
- 5-8 years of Teaching/Instruction Experience
- Financial Acumen Skills
- Strong Organizational and Planning Skills
- Strong Problem-Solving and Reasoning Skills
- Strong Relationship Building Skills
- Distance Education Program Experience
- Educational Marketing and Outreach Experience
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.





