Academy at Penn Site Associate Director, Office of School & Community Engagement

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Academy at Penn Site Associate Director, Office of School & Community Engagement

Job Profile Title

Associate Director B, Student Services

Job Description Summary

The Academy at Penn Site Associate Director plays a critical role in planning, implementing, and managing year-round programming that supports students’ academic and social growth. The Associate Director oversees a four-week summer program and weekly Saturday sessions during the school year, ensuring high-quality instruction, smooth operations, and a safe, inclusive learning environment. Reporting to the Academy Program Director, the Associate Director serves as a key liaison among staff, families, and community partners, and provides day-to-day leadership to ensure the success of all university-based Academy at Penn programming.

This position is fully grant-funded until June 2029.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate program development (scheduling, logistics, and daily operations), including working with key partners and academic consultants
  • Expected Outcomes: Program content is rigorous, engaging, and aligned with project goals and student learning goals.
  • How Performed: Collaborate with the Program Director, partners, and consultants to design, review, and refine curriculum; coordinate facilities, vendors, and transportation; manage daily logistics; address issues promptly to maintain program quality; integrate feedback from staff, families, and students to strengthen offerings.

• Supervise instructional and seasonal staff
  • Expected Outcomes: Staff are well-prepared, supported, and effective in delivering high-quality programming.
  • How Performed: Recruit, train, and supervise instructors and other program staff; provide orientation, ongoing coaching, and performance feedback.

• Ensure safe, inclusive, and productive program environments
  • Expected Outcomes: Students and staff experience a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment that fosters learning and growth.
  • How Performed: Implement and monitor safety protocols, emergency procedures, and behavioral expectations; model and promote inclusivity; address incidents or concerns promptly and appropriately.

• Monitor program quality and outcomes
  • Expected Outcomes: Programs continuously improve to meet student needs and organizational goals.
  • How Performed: Track student participation and progress; collect and analyze feedback; adjust programming and operations as needed to enhance effectiveness. 

Qualifications

ESSENTIAL:

• A Bachelors degree and 2 to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experie