New

Academic Program Coordinator - Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Jul 01, 2025
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. 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 Join a mission-driven team supporting tomorrow's scientific leaders! The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Academic Program Coordinator to play a pivotal role in managing and advancing graduate education across six interdisciplinary, research-intensive graduate programs. If you're passionate about academic excellence, student success, and data-driven program support, we invite you to bring your skills to one of the University's most dynamic interdisciplinary institutes. As the Academic Program Coordinator, you will be the cornerstone of graduate program operations-managing student records, coordinating academic milestones, and providing critical support from application through graduation. Your work will directly impact the success of Penn State's nationally recognized life sciences graduate programs by ensuring compliance, optimizing student experiences, and supporting strategic initiatives. This role requires outstanding organizational abilities, proactive communication, and a collaborative mindset to thrive in a fast-paced, detail-rich environment. You'll partner with faculty, administrators, and students to support and continuously improve the academic infrastructure of the Huck Intercollege Graduate Degree Programs (IGDPs). Key Responsibilities: Following are the key responsibilities of this position: Student and Records Management: Manage student records and academic progress from application to graduation. Coordinate with Graduate Enrollment Services, the Thesis Office, and IGDP Chairs to ensure accurate and compliant academic tracking. Oversee academic milestones including candidacy and comprehensive exams, defenses, and graduation processes. Provide guidance and support to students navigating academic policies. Academic Program Coordination: Lead course scheduling, enrollment management, and academic operations to maintain program integrity and effectiveness. Collaborate with faculty on curriculum development, academic assessments, and strategic program reviews. Organize key student-facing events such as orientation, recruitment initiatives, and alumni engagement efforts. Data Systems and Reporting: Design and maintain program databases (e.g., FileMaker Pro) for student progress, admissions, and alumni tracking. Generate internal and external reports to support NIH training grants, institutional evaluations, and national rankings. Use University systems such as GRADS, LionPATH, and iTwo for data extraction and reporting. Administrative and Strategic Support: Prepare confidential communications, strategic reports, and academic documentation. Assist with financial and operational planning, compliance, and front-office functions. Support the Graduate Programs Manager and Associate Director in advancing the mission of the Huck Graduate Education Office. Preferred Skills and Experience: Proficiency or demonstrated ability to quickly learn key platforms (e.g., FileMaker Pro, LionPATH, iTwo, Workday, Microsoft Office). Strong understanding of FERPA and academic policy compliance. A deep commitment to graduate student success and academic excellence. Exceptional attention to detail, multitasking, and time management skills. Ability to thrive in a high-volume, fast-paced academic setting. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Commitment to continuous learning, including ongoing professional development through resources like LinkedIn Learning. Why Join Us? At the Huck Institutes, we foster a collaborative and innovative environment where your work directly shapes the future of life sciences education. You'll contribute to programs that cross disciplinary boundaries, drive cutting-edge research, and prepare students for global scientific leadership. We offer a supportive team culture, opportunities for professional growth, a flexible work arrangement/hybrid remote schedule and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact at one of the nation's top research universities. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Associate Degree 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $61,000.00. 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. 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. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines