Careers at the University of Massachusetts Lowell

General Summary of Position:

The River Hawk Scholars Academy (RHSA) Associate Director leads the academic programs, curriculum development, & experiential learning efforts within RHSA. One primary responsibility of this position is to partner with academic departments and faculty to create innovative, technology-enhanced, equity-driven curricular and co-curricular experiences for the first-generation college students in RHSA. A second primary responsibility is to teach at least three RHSA-designated courses per year – including experiential learning courses (such as study abroad). A third primary responsibility is to lead and/or support some of RHSA’s signature academic and experiential learning programs, including Roads to Research, Social Impact Fellowships, and the annual FIRST conference for first-generation students. This position is funded for 2.5 years by a grant and aims to enhance the educational achievement of first-generation college students by providing enriching, student-centered academic programs and resources. There is the potential for continuation beyond 2.5 years depending on funding.

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

• Master’s degree required
• Minimum of 5-7 years in higher education with experience teaching, designing curricula, and supporting student success initiatives and evidence of success in these areas
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively with faculty members, students, staff, and administrators
• Demonstrated success in supporting a diverse and inclusive culture, including experience working with and understanding the unique needs of first-generation college students
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Experience successfully designing and executing co-curricular academic programs
• Ability to work independently and juggle multiple priorities and projects while consistently remaining detail oriented
• Demonstrated experience using educational technology and evaluation tools to enhance and assess student learning

Additional Considerations:

• Deep knowledge of best practices and emerging innovations related to inclusive learning and academic success for underrepresented student populations in higher education
• Demonstrated expertise and extensive experience working with first-generation college students
• Experience supervising student workers
• Bilingual in Spanish and English

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with overseeing study abroad and/or experiential learning opportunities preferred.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Only current UML Employees within the Grants & Contracts (MTA/GRACE) bargaining unit will be considered during the first 10 business days of the posting. All other candidates will be considered after that period.

This is a Grants & Contracts (MTA/GRACE) bargaining unit position, Grade P17.

Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.  

This position is contingent upon funding and is funded for 2.5 years by a grant and aims to enhance the educational achievement of first-generation college students by providing enriching, student-centered academic programs and resources. There is the potential for continuation beyond 2.5 years depending on funding.

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application. Names and contact information of three references will be required at the time of application.

Posting updated 4/22/2024.