Director of the Institute for STEM Experiential Learning

Saint Peter’s University is seeking an experienced candidate to be the Director of the Institute for STEM Experiential Learning. Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention, and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment. The University’s main campus is located in Jersey City, a city rich with arts and culture, and less than five miles from New York City.

Reporting to the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, the Director of the Institute for STEM Experiential learning is a full-time position.  This person will play a leadership role in all aspects of STEM experiential learning. They will serve as the Corporate Liaison to pursue relationships with Corporate STEM partners to provide SPU STEM students with possible internships, shadowing programs, and potential employment opportunities post-graduation.  The Director will be responsible for developing and maintaining a STEM advisory board consisting of STEM professionals from outside the University.  The Director will work closely in collaboration with the STEM faculty coordinator for experiential learning to develop and manage badging/certificate programs for STEM research and internship experiences to create career pathways for our students. In addition, they will work with the faculty coordinator for STEM faculty development to support the development of curriculum and courses that include STEM experiential learning.

Ideal candidates will have a strong science background and a professional network in either academia or industry. In addition, we are looking for strong leadership skills and excellent written and verbal communication. A PhD in a science field or MBA degree is strongly preferred although the relevant experience may compensate for degree.

Responsibilities

• Partner with STEM organizations outside the university
• Develop a wide range of career-based learning opportunities for faculty and students for example:
  • Traditional internships,
  • case studies to be infused into courses,
  • field experiences,
  • service learning,
  • simulations,
  • shadowing, networking and volunteering experiences.
• Work closely with the Center for Career Engagement and Experiential Learning (CEEL)
• work with STEM organization collaborators to bring exploratory and motivational career-related speakers and workshops to campus
• Lead the creation of a STEM Advisory Board
• Develop short-term outreach plan and goals
• Identify and attend meetings to inform departments about efforts to increase the visibility of Institute
• Organize and implement workshops and presentations to STEM students on opportunities available from the institute
• Plan and coordinate activities to develop linkages with external community organizations and agencies
• Track participation
• Attend and engage in team and external meetings
• Attend training and professional development as and when required
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications Standards:   

 Minimum of a Master’s degree is required; MBA or PhD degree preferred

• Strong Science Background
• Strong background in STEM Environments outside of a college/university setting
• Experience in corporate outreach and the ability to build and maintain successful strategic partnerships
• Welcoming, enthusiastic, and energetic demeanor with the ability to communicate information clearly and concisely
• Must be able/willing to conduct external outreach and travel within NJ to meet with external city, county and State agencies to explore partnership opportunities for additional services.
• High level of motivation, self-direction, and the ability to work independently
• Computer literacy and efficiency using Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and the internet
• Comfortable with public speaking and giving presentations
• Strong written and verbal communications skills and effective time management skills
• Ability to prioritize and adjust to change
• Valid Driver’s License, NJ resident preferred

Education:

Master’s degree required; MBA or a PhD is strongly preferred.

Experience:

At least one (1) year of professional experience in a college/university setting is preferred.