Program Director, Backpack to Briefcase

Job Duties

• Design, instruct and continuously improve foundational courses, ensuring student preparation for professional career pathways.
• Create and lead a comprehensive four-year development program mapped to NACE Career Readiness Competencies to maximize student market readiness.
• Manage the integration of high-impact learning opportunities to ensure students gain measurable real-world experience.
• Instruct students on modern career mechanics, including personal branding, technical interviewing (STAR method), and the creation of professional portfolios.
• Facilitate "Feedback Loops" by helping students analyze assessment data (CliftonStrengths, NACE) to build actionable, developmental plans.
• Curate industry-leading speaker series and workshops that connect students with alumni and employers for career-readiness training and etiquette.
• Oversee the full lifecycle of the Freeman Fellow Peer Mentorship Program, including the recruitment, leadership training, and daily supervision of student mentors.
• Serve as a key liaison between the college, the Center for Career Advancement, and faculty to align student skills with current market needs and placement goals.

Required What You Will Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Education, Counseling or related field.
• 6 years of experience in Higher Education, Career Services, or a related field that demonstrates a strong ability to coach and support students for professional transitions.
• Highly effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills with internal and external constituents.
• Ability to craft and deliver clear and engaging content.
• Demonstrated ability to set priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and function autonomously in an entrepreneurial environment.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Windows/Microsoft Office, experience with student databases, and receptivity to learning new technologies.

Preferred, But Not Required

• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with career-tech platforms such as Handshake, BisonReady (Suitable), Hiration, Parker Dewey, and Forage.
• Graduate degree in a relevant field (Business Administration, Education, Counseling, etc.).
• Assessment Expertise: Experience administering and interpreting professional assessments, specifically CliftonStrengths and NACE Career Readiness Competencies.
• Instructional Experience: Demonstrated experience teaching at the collegiate level, specifically in areas of professional branding, technical/behavioral interviewing, and LinkedIn optimization.
• Career Coaching: Experience in career advising and case management, particularly in helping students navigate "failure" and pivot toward experiential opportunities.
• Familiarity with advanced research or assessment methods and a demonstrated ability to analyze data and summarize findings.

Physical Requirements

Basic office environment. No extraordinary physical demands required.

Pay

$59,760.00 - $74,700.00

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling options determined by role;
• Medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance options;
• An outstanding 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan (no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions);
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick time, a community service day, and 19 paid holidays (including two full weeks off for Winter Break!);
• Full-time and part-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for themselves. Additionally, full-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for their spouse/spousal equivalent and are eligible for various tuition programs for their children.
• Credit for full-time benefits eligible employment at other institutions of higher education will be applied to waiting periods.
• A comprehensive employee wellness program including program incentives;
• A myriad of other benefits, including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card.