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Director Academic Operations Jobs in Rochester, NY

Sr. Department Assistant

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19.50 - $20.50/hr

... Director of the School of Music, the Senior Department Assistant coordinates the full scope of administrative operations for a dynamic, high-volume academic unit. The School of Music comprises ...

Showing results 41-60

Director Academic Operations information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$33.5K

$106.2K

$177.1K

How much do director academic operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for director academic operations in Rochester, NY is $106,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of academic operations?

A Director of Academic Operations typically requires strong leadership skills, experience in academic administration, and a relevant advanced degree such as a Master's or Doctorate in education or administration. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), institutional data analytics platforms, and compliance regulations is crucial. Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills set top candidates apart in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure efficient academic program delivery, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration across departments.

What are the main challenges faced by a director of academic operations in balancing administrative tasks with academic goals?

A Director of Academic Operations often navigates the challenge of aligning administrative efficiencies with the institution’s academic mission. This role requires balancing resource management, compliance, and scheduling with supporting faculty and student needs. Effective Directors use strong communication and organizational skills to collaborate across departments, ensuring academic programs run smoothly while meeting institutional standards. Adapting to shifting priorities and regulatory changes is a frequent part of the job, making flexibility and proactive problem-solving essential.

What is the difference between Director Academic Operations vs Academic Program Manager?

AspectDirector Academic OperationsAcademic Program Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree; experience in education managementBachelor's or Master's degree; project management experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple departments, strategic planningManages specific academic programs, operational tasks
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, universities, online education providersColleges, universities, educational organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in academic operationsManaging academic programs and day-to-day operations

The main difference is that the Director Academic Operations holds a higher-level leadership role overseeing multiple departments and strategic initiatives, while the Academic Program Manager focuses on managing specific programs and operational tasks within the academic environment.

What does a director of academic operations do?

A Director of Academic Operations is responsible for overseeing the administrative and logistical aspects of an educational institution's academic programs. This role typically involves managing course scheduling, faculty assignments, academic policies, and ensuring compliance with accreditation standards. They work closely with faculty, staff, and leadership to streamline processes and support student success. Directors of Academic Operations often use data-driven strategies to improve efficiency and align operations with the institution's academic goals.

What are popular job titles related to Director Academic Operations jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Director Academic Operations jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Academic Operations jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Academic Operations jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Director Academic Operations jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Director Academic Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Academic Operations job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,245 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Director of Student Financial Services

Roberts Wesleyan University

Rochester, NY

$80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Objective:  Provide leadership, accountability, and daily management of the Office of Student Financial Services. Create and maintain an attitude of quality customer service to students, families, and partners. Maintain regulatory compliance and protect the integrity of the financial aid services of the University.


Job Responsibilities:


Operational Oversight:

  • Oversee full-service financial aid processing, including document collection, budgeting, awarding, FAFSA verification, and loan certification for college related programs.
  • Monitor student Satisfactory Academic Progress for all students.
  • Review financial aid eligibility for students and allocate funds to students accordingly.
  • Provide leadership and direction around processes related to the disbursement of funds.
  • Demonstrate attitude of quality customer service to students and families.
  • Maintain current knowledge of federal and institutional policies and procedures regulating student aid.
  • Present material related to financial aid and/or internal policies and procedures to various audiences.
  • Manage processes to allow for efficient and accurate processing of financial aid.
  • Complete annual, quarterly, and monthly audits and reconciliations.
  • Maintain compliance with all regulations

Policy and Planning Participation:

  • Oversee the development and implementation of policies and procedures which ensure the successes of all functions of the financial aid awarding process including:
    • Preparing and delivering financial aid awards to students in an effective manner.
    • All aspects of financial aid processing including document collection, budgeting, awarding,
    • FAFSA verification, and loan certification.
    • Counseling to students and families through each step of the financial aid process.
  • Develop a communication plan for students and families through each step of the financial aid and students finance model.
  • Manage staff to provide insight and leadership, regarding various functions including (but not limited to): compliance review, communications, systems review, and budget discussions.
  • Develop strategies for new and returning students which promote sound financial planning for the purpose of successfully financing the academic goals of each student.
  • Provide data for key performing indicators.

Collaboration:

  • Coordinate financial aid functions with appropriate offices and recruitment vendor(s), as it relates to financial aid.
  • Coordinate communication with admissions offices and other student services offices, and those involved in academic advising to ensure they have accurate information and contacts to help students make solid financial decisions.

Team Management and Supervision:

  • Hire, train, and supervise Student Financial Services staff in the essentials of customer service, student outreach, student financial planning, and the necessary elements of federal and state financial aid compliance.
  • Provide leadership, training, and accountability for financial aid staff as they work with prospective students with application to graduation.
  • Implement and document regular and consistent quality control functions to measure accuracy and quality of Title IV awarding as well as institutional controls.
  • Provide technical training and guidance.
The approved salary for this position is:  $70.000.00 - $80,000.00/annually

Requirements

Qualifications

  • 5 years comparable work experience
  • Previous accounting or customer service background is required.
  • Financial Aid system experience.
  • Attention to detail
  • Familiarity with accounting procedures
  • Strong project management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Ability to project a positive image of the College to all constituents
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Public Administration
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Excellent teamwork skillsÂ