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Director Academic Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$32.80K - $40.70K/yr

... operational continuity, and support the university's academic and research missions. The Assistant Director possesses a strong understanding of building and laboratory mechanical systems and serves ...

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Director Academic Operations information

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$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do director academic operations jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for director academic operations in the United States is $107,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Academic Operations, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Director Academic Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Academic Operations jobs? Cities with the most Director Academic Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Operations jobs? The most popular types of Academic Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Director Academic Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Academic Operations jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director Academic Operations job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.
Parnassus Academic Operations Analyst

Parnassus Academic Operations Analyst

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Parnassus Academic Operations Analyst provides direct high-level administrative and project support at the Department of Emergency Medicine (DEM) Parnassus site. This position independently prioritizes issues in a fast-paced environment, manages the Parnassus Chief and Executive Medical Director's complex and demanding schedules, screens and triages highly confidential communications and plans and implements events for the Parnassus site. The incumbent oversees and manages the flow and exchange of information, streamlines interactions with key executives and facilitates initiatives on behalf of the Chief and/or Executive Medical Director. The individual functions as the gatekeeper, understanding the requirements and support needs of the Chief, leadership and management, in order to prioritize issues according to urgency.

The person in this position performs and/or oversees special projects or assignments that are sensitive and/or complex in nature, requiring a high level of independence and initiative in execution and implementation. The individual handles details and oversees work of a highly confidential and critical nature to support the Chief and leadership team on matters of significance. In addition, this position provides support to the other Parnassus faculty in areas such as scheduling support, meeting support, etc. 

This position requires the incumbent to have a high degree of organization, attention to detail, efficient use of time management, ability to prioritize work, discretion and initiative. Assignments are often given on a project basis and the incumbent is expected to manage the entire problem-solving process: gather and sort information, identify potential solutions, and present the finished product in the form of a written recommendation or completed project. The individual must have the ability to interact with many diverse personalities and demonstrate good judgment.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in related area and at least 3 years of equivalent experience and/or equivalent experience / training.

  • Thorough knowledge of University rules and regulations, processes, protocols and procedures for budget, accounting and fund management, and / or personnel management.

  • Interpersonal skills including verbal and written communication, active listening, critical thinking, persuasiveness, advising and counseling skills.

  • Knowledge of a variety of administrative operational activities such as event planning, basic fundraising processes, risk management planning, website design, accounting and payroll, and contracts and grants regulations and guidelines.

  • Solid knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs.

  • Ability to use discretion and maintain confidentiality.

  • Strong skills in short-term planning, analysis, problem-solving, and customer service.

  • Thorough knowledge of financial analysis and reporting techniques, and / or human resources policies and procedures for staff and academic employees.

  • Experience in scheduling, meeting coordination, administrative and office support, problem-solving and analytical support.

  • Strong and exceptional service orientation.