Associate Director of Academic Success & Bar Preparation, Penn State Dickinson Law (University Park)

About the role

Penn State Dickinson Law seeks a motivated and driven new Associate Director of Academic Success & Bar Preparation to serve at our University Park location.

Responsibilities

• Help prepare and provide instruction in connection with the law school’s academic success courses and workshops in University Park and as needed and determined by departmental faculty leadership;
• Instruct first-year law students on maximizing their academic potential, including time management, outlining, exam preparation, and more;
• Counsel JD and LLM students through one-on-one and small group meetings via appointments and walk-in hours to enhance their study and test-taking skills and support academic success;
• Provide academic skills advising and instruction for University Park students under the Enhanced Academic Support Program;
• Oversee the tutoring program in collaboration with the Director, ensuring equitable services at both locations;
• Create and maintain a webpage with up-to-date bar admission and exam information, supplementary resources, and regular tips on class and exam preparation;
• Oversee the collection of law school bar exam results and prepare the first draft of the ABA Bar Questionnaire;
• Meet with students to advise them on courses to take and maximize their law school experiences, particularly during registration season;
• Refer students to Academic & Student Services, the Student Academic Handbook, and counseling resources as necessary;
• Attend occasional on- and off-campus events, including some travel between law school locations in Carlisle and University Park.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school;
• Admission to any state bar;
• Meaningful experience or demonstrated potential in teaching, tutoring, providing academic skills workshops, or training is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail;
• Proven skills in written and oral communication;
• Ability to exhibit empathy and compassion in a stressful environment;
• Ability to handle confidential information, exhibit good judgment, and exemplify appropriate customer service in working with students, faculty, and all levels of university staff and officials;
• Strong computer skills for spreadsheet reporting, word-processing, creating presentation slides, instructional videos, and hosting meetings via online video platforms;

Work Arrangement

The target start date for this position is August 17, 2026, or sooner. The Associate Director is expected to work in person at the University Park location, but on occasion and through agreement with departmental faculty leadership may occasionally work remotely. Flexible work arrangement requests must be aligned with the needs of the department and law school and the essential duties of the position.

Pay & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $94,980.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. 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.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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.