Director of Online Innovation & Workforce Development

About the role

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Director of Online Innovation & Workforce Development in the Division of External Operations. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth.

Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further. At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff.

Responsibilities

The Director of Online Innovation and Workforce Development provides strategic, operational, and visionary leadership for three primary areas: the university’s non-credit continuing education programs; connections strengthening and supporting workforce development; and oversight of Tarleton State Online operations.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for extended education, workforce development, and online learning initiatives aligned with university priorities.
• Conduct market research and needs assessments to identify and develop new program opportunities in high-demand, sustainable fields.
• Design, launch, and continuously improve online, hybrid, and in-person non-credit and certificate offerings, ensuring they meet industry, community, and student needs.
• Guide and expand Tarleton State Online related initiatives focusing on access, flexibility, and student success for virtual learners.
• Drive student and workforce success through innovative educational technologies and specialized digital engagement platforms.
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with industry partners to develop customized workforce training solutions.
• Lead integration and cooperation between online, extended education, and physical campuses to ensure collaboration and student-centered learning experiences.
• Oversee all operational aspects of extended education and online programs, including budget management, course scheduling, marketing, and compliance as applicable.

Qualifications

Required Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree and ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience in continuing education, workforce development, distance/online education, and/or instructional design.

• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, program development, market research, and partnership cultivation.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and trends in online and continuing education.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.

Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree, experience developing and managing online/blended learning and non-credit programs, and a proven track record of building and sustaining partnerships with businesses, industry, and community organizations.

Benefits

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and qualifying part-time employees. Our benefits package includes a range of benefits, with detailed information available on our Benefits Information page.

Pay

Salary: Commensurate with experience. The target base annual salary range is $80,370 up to $100,000 and may be negotiable based on funding availability and candidate experience/skillset in relation to the minimum requirements of this position.

Schedule

This position will work on-site from the Texas A&M-Fort Worth campus in downtown Fort Worth, Texas with work hours of Monday to Friday; 8AM-5PM or as work requirements indicate which may include afterhours as needed.