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Academic Program Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Academic Program Assistant information

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How much do academic program assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for academic program assistant in California is $18.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic program assistant?

Academic Program Assistants are administrative professionals who support academic departments, faculty, and students by managing program logistics, coordinating events, maintaining records, and assisting with communication. They often handle tasks such as scheduling, preparing materials, and providing information about courses or programs. Their role is essential to ensuring the smooth operation of academic programs and helping both staff and students navigate administrative processes.

What are some typical challenges an academic program assistant might face when supporting multiple faculty members and students?

Academic Program Assistants often juggle a variety of tasks for several faculty members and students at once, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing scheduling, responding to inquiries, and maintaining accurate records requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Additionally, navigating different communication styles and expectations can be complex, but proactive communication and clear documentation help ensure smooth collaboration across the academic department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic program assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Program Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with academic procedures, often supported by a bachelor’s degree or relevant administrative experience. Proficiency with office software (such as Microsoft Office Suite), student information systems, and scheduling tools is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively support students, faculty, and staff. These skills are crucial for ensuring smooth program operations and providing high-quality academic support.

What is the difference between Academic Program Assistant vs Academic Advisor?

AspectAcademic Program AssistantAcademic Advisor
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree often preferredBachelor's degree typically required; some roles may prefer a Master's
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices within educational institutionsStudent services offices, academic departments, or advising centers
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, and academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, and student support services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding administrative support roles in academiaGuidance and support roles for students' academic planning

The main difference is that an Academic Program Assistant provides administrative support related to academic programs, while an Academic Advisor offers personalized guidance to students on course selection and academic planning. Both roles are essential in educational settings but serve different functions within the academic environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Academic Program jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Academic Program Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Academic Program Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Academic Program Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,131 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Academic and Program Leadership Positions College of Nursing

Samuelmerritt

Fresno, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for nursing programs or academic initiatives.

  • Support faculty development, curriculum quality, and regulatory compliance.

  • Advance enrollment growth, student outcomes, and workforce-aligned programming.


Job description

Description:
Job Description Summary:
Samuel Merritt University
Multiple Openings | All specialty areas
Locations: Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, and Foster City (CA).
About Samuel Merritt University
Samuel Merritt University (SMU) is a private, non-profit health sciences university dedicated to educating compassionate, skilled, and culturally responsive health professionals who serve diverse and underserved communities. With campuses in Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, and Foster City, SMU is deeply embedded in California's healthcare ecosystem and committed to health equity, interprofessional education, clinical excellence, and workforce development.
Position Overview
The College of Nursing invites applications for exceptional academic and program leaders to support strategic growth. This initiative reflects the University's priorities related to enrollment growth, program excellence, community-engaged practice, and preparation of the nursing workforce needed to serve California's diverse populations.
Appointments may be made at the assistant, associate, or full professor level depending on qualifications and institutional needs. Positions may be based at any SMU campus, with opportunities for collaboration across locations.
Duties and Responsibilities:

Areas of Appointment

Academic & Program Leadership Roles

(e.g., Program Directors, Associate/Assistant Deans, Specialty Track Leads)

Primary Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for nursing programs or academic initiatives
  • Support faculty development, curriculum quality, and regulatory compliance
  • Advance enrollment growth, student outcomes, and workforce-aligned programming
  • Strengthen partnerships with clinical affiliates, health systems, and community organizations
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, equity, innovation, and continuous improvement

Preferred Expertise

  • Demonstrated academic, clinical, or administrative leadership experience
  • Experience with accreditation (e.g., CCNE), assessment, and program evaluation
  • Strong communication, organizational, and change-management skills

Minimum Required Qualifications (All Positions)

  • Earned graduate degree in nursing (doctoral degree preferred)
  • Active or eligible California RN licensure
  • Evidence of effective teaching, clinical excellence, scholarship, and/or leadership, as appropriate to role
  • Demonstrated commitment to inclusive excellence and health equity
  • Ability to work effectively in an urban, multi-campus, mission-driven academic environment

Why Join Samuel Merritt University?

  • Deep commitment to health equity and serving underserved communities
  • Strong clinical partnerships across Northern and Central California
  • Collaborative, student-centered faculty culture
  • Opportunities for interprofessional teaching, practice, and scholarship
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

  • Cover letter identifying area(s) of interest (pre-licensure, post-licensure, leadership) and preferred campus location(s).
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Statement of teaching philosophy and/or leadership approach

The annual salary for Academic and Program Leadership positions is determined based on the scope of the role, relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and other job-related factors. Depending on the position and candidate qualifications, salaries may range up to $160,000.

Employee Status:RegularExemption Status:United States of America (Exempt)Time Type:Full timeJob Shift:

Pay Range:

The annual salary for Academic and Program Leadership positions is determined based on the scope of the role, relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and other job-related factors.Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills.