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Director of Operations, Academic Affairs (1303)
Pocatello - Main
NOT eligible for remote work, on-campus position
Priority Date: August 12, 2026
Institution Information
Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!
Job Description
The Director of Operations serves as the administrative and operational backbone for the Office of Academic Affairs. Reporting directly to the Provost or Vice President for Academic Affairs, this role bridges the gap between academic vision and daily execution.
The Director is responsible for managing and optimizing administrative workflows, supporting the management of the academic affairs budget, coordinating faculty lifecycle processes, and ensuring that the operational infrastructure fully supports the institution's strategic academic goals.
This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered
Key Responsibilities
Administrative Operations & Workflow Optimization
- Design, implement and manage efficient administrative procedures across Academic Affairs to improve service delivery, ensure deadlines are met, and increase efficiency.
- Serve as the primary liaison between Academic Affairs and key operational departments (Human Resources, Finance, Information Technology, and Facilities).
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the Provost’s office, including supervising administrative support staff.
- Establish and oversee a standardized executive‑level reporting system.
Strategic Planning & Project Management
- Act as a project manager for high-priority initiatives originating from the Provost’s office (e.g., accreditation reviews, strategic plan rollouts, SBOE initiatives, etc).
- Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to academic operations and strategic plan milestones.
- Support the execution of key academic events.
- Coordinate and designate proxies to represent the Provost in meetings and project discussions.
Data Analysis & Compliance
- Prepare reports and relevant materials in support of executive-level decision-making.
- Collaborate with Institutional Research to gather, analyze, and present data related to faculty workload, course enrollment trends, and space utilization.
- Ensure academic operations comply with institutional policies, state/federal regulations, and accreditation standards.
- Draft, review, and update standard operating procedures and academic policy manuals.
Financial Management & Resource Allocation
- Coordinate with respective parties to establish and manage the annual budget planning process for the Office of Academic Affairs and its reporting units (colleges, library, etc.).
- Monitor expenditures, forecast academic resource needs, and provide regular financial health reports to the Provost.
- Evaluate and approve operational expenses, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and strategic priorities.
- Assist in the financial modeling for new academic programs, grants, and strategic initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
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Master’s degree, or Bachelor’s degree and 5 years relevant experience.
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A minimum of 5 years of progressive administrative and operational experience.
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Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to navigate complex organizational structures and build consensus among multi-faceted stakeholders (faculty, staff, and administration).
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Demonstrated experience managing complex budgets, financial forecasting, and resource allocation.
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An ability to learn higher education enterprise systems (e.g., Banner, Workday, PeopleSoft) and apply data insights to relevant issues.
- Advanced data/information management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
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Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration, or a closely related field.
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Three years of relevant experience in a higher education setting.
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Prior experience working directly within a Provost's or Dean's office.
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Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar relevant certification or education.
Additional Information
You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before August 12, 2026. Salary will be between $80,000 - $90,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.
Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.
Posting Number: req2785
Type: Working 12 months per year
Position: Non-classified Staff
Division: Office Of Academic Affairs
Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [email protected].
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.
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