Associate Dean of Operations (Academic Administrator)
 The Pennsylvania State University | |
remote work
| |
 United States, Pennsylvania, University Park | |
| 201 Old Main (Show on map) | |
 Oct 20, 2025 | |
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICS The Eberly College of Science at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for the position of Associate Dean of Operations. This executive leadership role is a key member of the Dean's core leadership team, charged with advancing strategic priorities, guiding operational excellence, and contributing to a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. As the College undergoes important transformation, the Associate Dean of Operations will serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the Dean. This role requires exceptional judgment, operational acumen, and leadership integrity. The successful candidate will represent the Dean in both internal and external engagements, provide counsel on complex issues, and foster effective communication and alignment across all college units. The Associate Dean of Operations will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Eberly College of Science, aligning college operations with institutional priorities and the Dean's vision. They will lead and coordinate strategic initiatives, implement high-impact policies, and manage change efforts across the college. As a key thought partner to the Dean, this individual will contribute to robust, informed decision-making and serve as a liaison between the Dean's Office and academic departments to ensure timely execution of college priorities. The Associate Dean will also oversee the documentation and evaluation of operational processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. In addition to operational leadership, the Associate Dean will represent the Dean in high-level meetings, committees, and campus-wide engagements. They will communicate on behalf of the Dean with professionalism and strategic clarity, and will prepare executive briefings, data-informed reports, and presentations that support institutional goals. The successful candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of the operations of a large public research university and a proven track record of success in strategic planning, operations management, and staff supervision. Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills are essential. Candidates must show a strong ability to navigate ambiguity, manage confidential information with discretion, and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. They should have experience in translating strategic vision into effective operational models and possess the analytical skills necessary to evaluate complex situations and recommend effective courses of action. The ideal candidate will be committed to fostering a positive organizational culture defined by collaboration, creativity, transparency, trust, and excellence. The Associate Dean will supervise senior administrative staff across areas such as facilities, communications, data analysis, and outreach. They will foster a collaborative and accountable work culture and lead initiatives to improve organizational performance and staff engagement. The role also requires effective stakeholder engagement and communication. The Associate Dean will build and maintain trust-based relationships with university leaders, faculty, staff, students, and external partners. They will promote shared governance through open, respectful, and inclusive dialogue, and clearly convey complex strategies to diverse audiences. Finally, the Associate Dean must handle highly sensitive personnel, financial, and strategic matters with the utmost confidentiality and discretion. This leader will model ethical decision-making, transparency, and integrity in all aspects of their work. Qualifications: A Masters or higher is required, Ph.D or equivalent is strongly preferred. A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in higher education or a similarly complex organization is required, including at least five (5) years in administrative leadership within a university setting. Preferred qualifications include experience at an R1 or research-intensive institution and a background in the sciences or experience supporting science-focused academic programs. Strong project management skills highly preferred. The College seeks a thoughtful and reflective leader who is committed to continuous learning and ongoing improvement. The ideal candidate demonstrates both courage and respect when engaging in difficult conversations and navigating disagreement. We are looking for an individual who thinks strategically, anticipates the broader impacts of decisions, and approaches challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset. This person must be trustworthy, exercise impeccable judgment, and handle sensitive matters with the highest level of discretion. They should thrive in complex environments and be deeply motivated by mission-driven work that advances the values and goals of the college. Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
Review of applications will start on November 17th and will continue until the position is filled. Home to world-class faculty, top-tier students, and groundbreaking research, the Eberly College of Science is a vibrant academic community within one of the nation's leading public research institutions. The College plays a central role in Penn State's research mission and is committed to excellence in teaching, scholarship, and community engagement. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines | |