Director, Center for Career and Professional

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Career Services will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive career services program for students and alumni, serving both on-campus and online students. This role requires a strategic leader passionate about student development, career planning, and employer engagement. The director coordinates a comprehensive workforce-ready student development program for all degree programs. He/she will oversee a team of Career Advisors and student workers, collaborate with academic departments and employers, and ensure that career services align with the university's mission and goals. This position is on Post's main campus and is not a remote opportunity. The schedule is Monday through Friday, with some evenings and weekends.

REPORTS TO: Dean of Students

RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Management

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the CCPD
• Hire, train, supervise, and mentor a team of Career Advisors and student workers
• Encourage staff personal and professional development through participation in professional organizations, conferences, and certifications
• Develop and manage the department's budget, resources, online platforms, website and initiatives
• Collaborate with Marketing, social media, and public relations staff to promote CCPD activities and programs
• Actively engage in university committees, including the Workforce Ready committee

Career Advising and Services

• Oversee the development and delivery of career advising, coaching, and resources for students and alumni
• Implement and enhance programs and services that address career exploration, job search strategies, internships, and professional development
• Serve as a resource for students and staff regarding federal and governmental resources, career assessments, labor force and economic trends, future careers, and job opportunities

Employer and Alumni Relations

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with employers, alumni, and industry professionals to create job and internship opportunities for students
• Provide interactive activities for students to engage with employers through career fairs, networking events, and employer presentations
• Invite employers to speak in classes and interact with faculty

Strategic Planning and Assessment

• Develop and execute strategic plans to measure and improve career services and align with university goals
• Assess the effectiveness of career services programs and make data-driven decisions to enhance services
• Play an active role in designing and implementing the University's strategic initiative of Workforce Ready - collaborating to connect career services into the larger entity of Workforce Ready while creating innovative services and programs that enhance student engagement in career and professional activities

Collaboration and Outreach

• Collaborate with academic departments, faculty, and student organizations to integrate career development and workforce-ready skills into academics and the holistic student experience
• Promote career services through outreach, workshops, and seminars to engage students and enhance their career readiness
• Engage in community events and organizations to develop and enhance relationships with potential employers

Reporting and Analytics

• Measure student participation and satisfaction with CCPD events and programs
• Monitor and report on career outcomes and program effectiveness
• Provide regular updates to university leadership on career services activities and achievements

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position requires a flexible schedule with some evening and weekend hours to meet the operational needs of the CCPD.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The requirements below represent knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Education
A master's degree is preferred in a career-related or other relevant academic discipline such as student development, education, or business

Experience
Minimum of six (6) years of experience in a complex career services organization or corporate college relations, recruitment, and/or professional staffing role.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Current knowledge of the job market, occupational outcomes of a variety of disciplines, and knowledge of career guidance and job search tools (e.g., LinkedIn, Handshake, ONet, and Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH)
• Must have superior interpersonal skills and a commitment to respect and collaboration with other departments, staff, faculty, and students
• Respect confidentiality and ethical boundaries regarding guidelines, supervision, and professional consultation within the university.
• Excellent verbal, advising, and written communication skills, including strong presentation skills incorporating current technology
• Experience in guiding and teaching the writing of resumes and cover letters, interview preparation, and job search strategies
• Experience promoting programs and using design tools (e.g., Canva, PowerPoint).
• Familiarization with assessment methodologies and data analysis
• Candidates must demonstrate the ability to connect with a blended community of students (traditional aged, online adult learners, undergraduate, graduate, etc.) and champion diverse populations to support the university's commitment to DEI
• Excellent time management skills and an ability to prioritize work activities