Senior Level Academic Director Jobs
Senior level academic director jobs place experienced educators at the helm of institutional strategy, curriculum leadership, and the academic teams that deliver on those priorities. Openings concentrate in Healthcare & Medical Services and Education, with a mix of on-site, remote, and hybrid positions available and employers like SSM Health, Indiana University Health, and UC Davis hiring at this level now.
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Reporting to the Executive Assistant Dean and under general direction of the Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies, the Director has responsibility for the development and implementation of the administration of the degree-granting graduate programs, as well as outreach, recruitment, and various student activities. Provides consultation on graduate matters college-wide and across the campus. In collaboration with college leadership, conceives strategies, delivers innovations, and exercises delegated authority to ensure optimal office operations, consistent with advancements in other UCD graduate programs. Sets goals and policies for the College of Biological Sciences Graduate Academic Programs (CBS GAP). Participates and contributes to committees that oversee advising and graduate education on campus. Participates in ad-hoc committees that provide policy actions or advice affecting graduate education. Provides expert advice and information to administrators, faculty and staff in the college and departments across campus. Represents the college in discussions with other student-oriented units across campus, including the Office of Graduate Studies, the Office of the University Registrar, etc. Supervises an advising staff of 2 FTE and oversees administrative and programmatic budgets for the unit.
Apply By Date
November 30, 2026 at 11:59pm
RECRUITMENT PERIOD ONE MONTH: Applicants will be screened on a biweekly basis. The position can be filled prior to the removal date.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience
- Experience identifying and implementing solutions for advising and recruitment needs for a multicultural student population within staffing, space and budgetary limitations.
- Experience using counseling and guidance techniques to provide comprehensive advising and counseling services, and to provide guidance to students in sensitive and emotional situations.
- Experience within an academic environment at a major research university, general curricular elements and structures (e.g., courses, units, prerequisites, majors and designated emphasis), and pedagogical approaches at the college and university level.
- Leadership and negotiation skills to interact/communicate effectively across a broad range of stakeholders, model professional behavior, facilitate conflict resolution, and manage complex academic and personnel situations in an independent manner.
- Data analysis and budget skills to allocate resources in student support and operational expenses.
- Ability to make timely and accurate progress, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of productivity in a high volume, fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in policy analysis and implementation to reduce risk and achieve results in a dynamic environment.
- Supervisory experience to recruit, train, evaluate, motivate, resolve problems, and build an effective service-oriented team environment. Knowledge and experience with university policies, procedures and regulations governing graduate education.
-
Key Responsibilities
- 60% - Leadership & Supervision
- 30% - Graduate Program Administration
- 10% - Graduate Advising/Counseling
Department Overview
The Dean's Office of the College of Biological Sciences oversees all academic, administrative, and budgetary aspects of the College, which includes five academic departments, eight interdisciplinary graduate programs and one Designated Emphasis, twelve undergraduate majors, and major interdisciplinary centers, including the UC Davis Genome Center, the Center for Neuroscience and the Center for Population Biology. The CBS GAP mission is to develop future leaders through outstanding programs of graduate education. A graduate student services management team collaborates in the development of a service unit approach to graduate education, providing expertise and administration to all of the CBS graduate groups (approximately 425 students with faculty from across many departments, schools, and colleges at UC Davis).
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $71,600/yr. - $127,800/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 21
- UC Job Title: STDT SVC SUPV 2
- UC Job Code: 004579
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Monday – Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Reporting to the Executive Assistant Dean and under general direction of the Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies, the Director has responsibility for the development and implementation of the administration of the degree-granting graduate programs, as well as outreach, recruitment, and various student activities. Provides consultation on graduate matters college-wide and across the campus. In collaboration with college leadership, conceives strategies, delivers innovations, and exercises delegated authority to ensure optimal office operations, consistent with advancements in other UCD graduate programs. Sets goals and policies for the College of Biological Sciences Graduate Academic Programs (CBS GAP). Participates and contributes to committees that oversee advising and graduate education on campus. Participates in ad-hoc committees that provide policy actions or advice affecting graduate education. Provides expert advice and information to administrators, faculty and staff in the college and departments across campus. Represents the college in discussions with other student-oriented units across campus, including the Office of Graduate Studies, the Office of the University Registrar, etc. Supervises an advising staff of 2 FTE and oversees administrative and programmatic budgets for the unit.
Apply By Date
November 30, 2026 at 11:59pm
RECRUITMENT PERIOD ONE MONTH: Applicants will be screened on a biweekly basis. The position can be filled prior to the removal date.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience
- Experience identifying and implementing solutions for advising and recruitment needs for a multicultural student population within staffing, space and budgetary limitations.
- Experience using counseling and guidance techniques to provide comprehensive advising and counseling services, and to provide guidance to students in sensitive and emotional situations.
- Experience within an academic environment at a major research university, general curricular elements and structures (e.g., courses, units, prerequisites, majors and designated emphasis), and pedagogical approaches at the college and university level.
- Leadership and negotiation skills to interact/communicate effectively across a broad range of stakeholders, model professional behavior, facilitate conflict resolution, and manage complex academic and personnel situations in an independent manner.
- Data analysis and budget skills to allocate resources in student support and operational expenses.
- Ability to make timely and accurate progress, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of productivity in a high volume, fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in policy analysis and implementation to reduce risk and achieve results in a dynamic environment.
- Supervisory experience to recruit, train, evaluate, motivate, resolve problems, and build an effective service-oriented team environment. Knowledge and experience with university policies, procedures and regulations governing graduate education.
-
Key Responsibilities
- 60% - Leadership & Supervision
- 30% - Graduate Program Administration
- 10% - Graduate Advising/Counseling
Department Overview
The Dean's Office of the College of Biological Sciences oversees all academic, administrative, and budgetary aspects of the College, which includes five academic departments, eight interdisciplinary graduate programs and one Designated Emphasis, twelve undergraduate majors, and major interdisciplinary centers, including the UC Davis Genome Center, the Center for Neuroscience and the Center for Population Biology. The CBS GAP mission is to develop future leaders through outstanding programs of graduate education. A graduate student services management team collaborates in the development of a service unit approach to graduate education, providing expertise and administration to all of the CBS graduate groups (approximately 425 students with faculty from across many departments, schools, and colleges at UC Davis).
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $71,600/yr. - $127,800/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 21
- UC Job Title: STDT SVC SUPV 2
- UC Job Code: 004579
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Monday – Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
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Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Education
Senior Level Academic Director Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level academic director job?
Candidates who land senior level academic director roles typically bring a record of leading institutional change, managing cross-functional academic teams, and owning outcomes like accreditation results or program growth. Highlighting experience setting curriculum strategy, mentoring faculty or staff, and presenting to boards or executive leadership signals the leadership depth these employers expect at this level.
Which companies hire senior level academic directors?
Companies hiring senior level academic directors right now include SSM Health, Indiana University Health, and UC Davis, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. At this level, hiring tends to come from universities, large K-12 networks, edtech organizations, and healthcare or corporate training divisions that need experienced leaders to own academic quality and program direction.
Are there remote senior level academic director jobs?
Yes, though availability varies by institution type and program scope. About 40% of senior level academic director openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with fully remote roles more common in edtech and online program management than in traditional campus-based settings where on-site presence is expected.
What makes an academic director role senior level?
Senior level academic director roles are defined by institutional ownership rather than program execution. These positions set academic vision, hold accountability for accreditation, enrollment outcomes, or faculty performance, and lead other directors or department heads. Mentoring mid-level staff and presenting strategy to executive stakeholders are standard expectations that distinguish senior roles from mid-level ones.
Which industries hire the most senior level academic directors?
Senior level academic director roles concentrate in Healthcare & Medical Services and Education, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive hiring at this level because they operate large, structured academic or training programs that require experienced leaders to maintain quality, manage regulatory compliance, and scale curriculum across multiple sites or audiences.