Assistant Dean for Administrative Operations

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) is home to four departments and many programs and research centers that cross disciplines. We approach scientific problems from fresh angles using creative interdisciplinary approaches while drawing on our departmental strengths in the core sciences. MCS faculty members are nationally and internationally recognized for their research in a variety of fields, including polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

MCS is seeking an Assistant Dean for Administrative Operations, reporting to the Dean of the Mellon College of Science, to be responsible for the operational and administrative functions of the College, including human resources (for staff and student employees), building operations, compliance, and organizational effectiveness. This position ensures the College’s operational processes are efficient, effective, and aligned with university policies, and serves as a liaison between College leadership and university administrative offices.

Core Responsibilities:

50% Organizational Leadership

• Oversee daily operations of the College, including administrative workflows, staffing, and organizational structure.
• Collaborate with school HR Business Partner to implement approved workforce processes, support personnel actions and to facilitate collaboration with school leadership while working closely with the Associate Dean for Finance to manage costs.
• Provide collegiate-level support by partnering with the Office of Human Resources, to include College HR Business Partner and Recruiter on processes and requirements involving  staff and student employees, including hiring, onboarding, offboarding, role transitions, professional development, performance management processes and compensation, while supporting the development and maintenance of job descriptions, onboarding materials, and staff experience practices to attract, recruit, and retain exceptional talent.
• Work with Department Heads and the Associate Dean for Finance to manage faculty hiring, ensuring offers comply with college and university policies and available resources.
• Act as the College’s approver for Workday transactions and related administrative processes.

30% Administrative Operations

• Serve as the primary College contact for facilities, security, environmental health and safety, and building operations (including specialized research facilities).
• Provide oversight to and collaborate with the IT Director to leverage systems and data in support of operational improvements.
• Oversee facilities renovations and maintenance projects in collaboration with Senior Building and Facilities Manager, CDFD, and the Associate Dean for Finance.
• Develop operational strategies to improve efficiency, consistency, and effectiveness across the College.
• Ensure compliance with university policies, internal procedures, and external regulations.

20% Collaboration and Special Projects

• Serve as liaison to central university offices and committees on operational matters.
• Promote the College’s mission and strategic initiatives internally and externally.
• Represents the college at university meetings of the Administrative Leadership Group (ALG), HR Ambassadors, and similar bodies.
• Lead special administrative initiatives and cross-functional projects aligned with school and university priorities, as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.  We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in business administration or related field preferred.
• Minimum of ten years of relevant experience with at least five years in operational leadership; higher education experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of administrative operations, HR practices, and compliance regulations.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Direction: Works independently with regular meetings with the Dean.

Decision Making: Manages operational responsibilities independently, referring only unique or complex issues to the Dean.

Supervisory Responsibility: Oversees professional and support staff, providing guidance, mentoring, and performance management.

Working Conditions: Ability to work under pressure, maintain confidentiality, and operate within specialized research facilities as needed.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insuranceas well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Program, Project and Operations Management

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information: