1

Graduate Development Program Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

... and new development programs. As such, this program management role provides direction and ... Bachelor's Degree and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience or Graduate Degree and minimum 4 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Graduate Development Program information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$34.2K

$128.2K

$213.5K

How much do graduate development program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate development program in Irvine, CA is $128,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Graduate Development Program position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Graduate Development Program, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, a strong academic record, and enthusiasm for learning in a professional environment. Familiarity with industry-specific software, data analysis tools, or project management systems can be beneficial depending on the sector. Excellent communication, adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help individuals stand out in this rotational, mentorship-driven setting. These skills and qualifications are vital for successfully integrating into diverse teams, learning quickly, and maximizing the opportunities these programs offer for early-career development.

What kinds of career advancement opportunities can I expect after completing a Graduate Development Program?

Graduate Development Programs are designed to fast-track participants into roles of greater responsibility by providing exposure to multiple business areas and structured mentorship. Upon completion, graduates may transition directly into specialized positions within the organization, often with clearer pathways to leadership or management roles. Many programs also offer ongoing professional development, networking opportunities, and support from senior leaders to help alumni continue growing their careers. The skills and insights gained throughout the program make graduates highly competitive for a wide range of future opportunities within the company or industry.

What is a Graduate Development Program job?

A Graduate Development Program (GDP) is an entry-level job designed for recent graduates to gain structured training and hands-on experience in a specific industry or company. These programs typically last from one to three years and include rotations across different departments, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. The goal is to equip graduates with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for long-term career growth within the organization.

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Graduate Development Program jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Graduate Development Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Development Program job openings in Irvine, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,167 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Assistant Director of Specialized Graduate Business Programs

Assistant Director of Specialized Graduate Business Programs

Chapman University

Orange, CA

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Chapman University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Position Title Assistant Director of Specialized Graduate Business Programs Position Type Regular Job Number SA72624 Full or Part Time full-time 40 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification Exempt Anticipated Pay Range $70,304 - $75,000 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions at the Argyros College of Business and Economics will be responsible for driving the recruitment, matriculation, and overall success of the Specialized Master's of Science Programs. This includes the recruitment of domestic and international students. This role requires a dynamic individual with a strong background in sales or recruitment, preferably within higher education or professional sectors, who excels at building relationships, working independently, and collaborating within a team.
Responsibilities
Graduate Student Recruitment
  • Meet recruitment goals for Master's of Science Programs.
  • Identify and engage prospective students for the Specialized Master's of Science programs, reaching out to alumni, business partners, current students and other sources.
  • Provide comprehensive consultative services to prospective students, guiding them through the application process, program requirements, academic policies, and procedures.
  • Schedule and conduct official application interviews with candidates, making recommendations as part of the admissions selection committee.
  • Represent the Argyros College at local recruitment fairs and events.
  • Track and maintain detailed admission and enrollment data for Specialized Master's of Science students.
  • Support the development and effective utilization of a recruitment management system, ensuring a robust communication flow with prospective and matriculated students.
  • Plan, execute, and attend information sessions and yield events to engage prospects and secure admitted applicants.
  • Work collaboratively with International Student Scholar Services, Central Graduate Admissions, Veterans Resources, Registrar's Office, and other University colleges and campus partners.
  • Work collaboratively with Academic Directors and create and maintain relationships with program alumni.
Marketing Strategies and Implementation
  • Collaborate with the Assistant Dean Business Programs Admission to develop innovative marketing strategies and initiatives that enhance recruitment efforts.
  • Manage the creation and coordination of print and digital marketing materials, ensuring all content is current and impactful on the Argyros College Graduate Programs webpage.
  • Stay informed of industry best practices and emerging trends in marketing, recruitment, and competitor activities to keep recruitment strategies competitive and effective.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with alumni, industry partners, other business schools, corporations, and universities to enhance program visibility and opportunities for collaboration.
Other Responsibilities
  • Work closely with the Assistant Dean on academic planning activities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall success of the Graduate Business Programs
Required Qualifications
  • A degree in business or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Desire to engage prospective students face-to-face.
  • Knowledge of business and management principles.
  • Ability to establish goals and objectives that support the strategic plan.
  • Strong oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated tact and diplomacy and ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Technical ability to learn and use job-related enterprise software.
  • Microsoft Office Suite applications knowledge, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe.
  • Ability to demonstrate initiative without constant supervision.
  • Strong commitment to customer service.
Desired Qualifications
  • Knowledge of graduate programs admission, recruitment, and enrollment management.
  • Knowledge of program management at the graduate level.
  • Proactive self-starter with a strong desire to take initiative and contribute.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Meticulous attention to detail in planning and executing events and managing communications.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt to changing market conditions.
  • High emotional intelligence.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.  All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. 
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Minimum Number of References Maximum Number of References