Job Details

Academic Program Manager

Position Number: 7172653
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Position Type: Academic Advising

Academic Program Manager

Job Summary

The Office of Transformative Student Experiences at the David Eccles School of Business seeks a full-time Academic Program Manager for the First Ascent Scholars Program (FAS). FAS provides wrap-around support to high-achieving college students with high financial need. The First Ascent Program Manager is primarily responsible for the day-to-day student support and student engagement programming. Grounded in a student-centered philosophy, the program prioritizes students' well-being, academic achievement, and holistic development. Through intentional programming, proactive coaching, strong community connections, and meaningful scholarship support, FAS empowers students to succeed academically and graduate in a timely manner.

Reporting to the Director of the Office of Transformative Student Experiences, this position will support recruitment, selection, and transition into the Eccles School and the First Ascent Scholars program. Responsibilities include overseeing daily program operations; coordinating monthly events; and serving as the primary point of contact to approximately 40 students. The Program Manager provides proactive academic guidance, monitors progress toward graduation, supports scholarship awarding processes, and coordinates individualized interventions in collaboration with campus partners. Additionally, the First Ascent Program Manager will coordinate and participate in events and trips, nationally and internationally, and work to ensure scholarships are appropriately administered.

To learn more about the First Ascent Scholars Program, visit: https://eccles.utah.edu/programs/undergraduate/first-ascent-scholars/

Responsibilities

Oversees daily program operations and coordinates program activities of the First Ascent Program.
Assists students with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the University of Utah's established priority deadline and meeting other campus deadlines.
Provides proactive academic coaching and mentorship throughout students' college careers.
Guides students on program, Eccles, and University-wide policies and processes.
Oversees administration of Canvas and other student-facing systems for the program.
Develops student retention- and community- based engagement activities for FAS student.
Ensures students have the resources they need to be successful in college (e.g. counseling, computers, tutoring, academic advising, career coaching, etc.).
Monitor student academic progress throughout the semester and develop timely interventions, as needed, to promote and encourage timely graduation.
Works closely with the Director of Transformative Student Experiences to support and work with the advisory board to ensure student success.
Nurtures collaborative relationships with Eccles Schools and university community members to connect students with opportunities for deep learning and expansion of network.
Coordinates and participates in all student engagement events and trips. Must be able to obtain a passport to travel internationally.
Helps build student pathways throughout undergraduate student offices, resources, events and opportunities in the David Eccles School of Business.
Works with the Director to assess and maintain the program's quality.
As requested, prepares reports and records on program status and progress.
Participates as an ex-officio member of the First Ascent Scholars Board of Advisors.
Other duties as assigned to support the mission of the Office of TransformativeStudent Experiences and Undergraduate Programs

Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically requiredNearly Continuously: Office environment.Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be requiredNearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related area plus three years of experience in budget, grant and program management or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required.
Develops and implements program ideas into successful academic and research programs; demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

Bachelor's degree in Education, Business, Communication, or similar.
3+ years of experience in project or program management.
1+ year of experience supervising or mentoring students from different backgrounds.
Experience supporting administrators, directors, or faculty leaders.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for engaging different stakeholders.
Strong organizational and time management skills with outstanding attention to detail and record keeping.
Ability to utilize strong organizational, administrative, and communication skills.
Ability to adapt to changing environments and foster a collaborative, inclusive work culture.
Preferences
MEd or Master's degree in Education, Business, Policy and Public Administration, Communication, or similar.
3+ years of experience working with undergraduate students
3+ years of experience in project or program management, preferably in collaboration with academic, industry, and community entities.
3+ years of experience supervising or mentoring students.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN45124B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary: Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Some evenings and weekends required.
Department: 01420 - Advising (Sch of Business)
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $55,000 - $60,000
Close Date: 6/12/2026
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/202321