UTSI Director of Academic Programs – Tullahoma, TN Position Available In Coffee, Tennessee

UTSI Director of Academic Programs – Tullahoma, TN University of Tennessee Space Institute Tullahoma, TN 37388 Job Description The University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) is seeking a Director of Academic Programs to lead and oversee the academic affairs, admissions, student recruiting, distance education, and external engagement at UTSI. This position plays a pivotal role in ensuring the effective execution of academic programs, maintaining alignment with UTK academic leadership, and fostering the development of new educational initiatives. Position Overview Reporting to the Executive Director of UTSI, the Director of Academic Programs is a member of the UTSI senior leadership team. It provides strategic direction for the planning, execution, and coordination of academic functions. This individual will supervise multiple functional groups, collaborate with UTK leadership and faculty, and develop new academic content that supports UTSI’s mission. This is a regular, full-time, exempt position with competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience. Key Responsibilities Academic Leadership & Program Execution (50%) Develop and lead the execution of UTSI’s academic programs strategy to support institutional strategic goals. Oversee resource allocation and supervision of personnel supporting the academic mission. Partner with faculty, UTK colleges, and external institutions to enhance recruitment, curriculum offerings, student affairs, and continuing education. Maintain strong relationships with academic department heads and the UTSI Director of Curriculum Planning & Coordination. Collaborate closely with the UTK Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to align academic programs with university objectives. Development of New & Enhanced Academic Programs (25%) Lead the creation of UTSI-specific academic initiatives, ensuring consistency with UTK academic leadership. Develop partnerships with regional academic institutions to expand collaborative educational opportunities. Oversee the expansion of UTSI’s distance education capabilities, including online MS degree programs. Supervision & Personnel Leadership (15%) Provide supervision, mentorship, and professional development to multiple functional groups reporting to this position. Conduct performance evaluations and guide career development for academic team leaders. Ensure appropriate mentoring, evaluations, and professional growth for all personnel under this role. Institutional Representation & Community Engagement (10%) Represent UTSI and the Executive Director at university, industry, and community events. Serve as a liaison for external organizations, advancing UTSI’s academic reputation and partnerships. Act as the Executive Director’s representative in strategic meetings and academic collaborations.

Qualifications Qualifications Required:

Doctoral degree in Engineering or a strongly related field. Minimum of 10 years of experience in academia, including experience as an instructor and in a leadership position. Demonstrated leadership and administrative skills in an academic setting. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build institutional partnerships. Extensive knowledge of university policies, administrative structure, and operational procedures. Experience in engineering education and research. Commitment to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action.

Preferred:

3+ years of experience leading a significant academic research center, department, or similar academic organization. Experience developing large-scale educational programs in higher education institutions. About Us The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service. UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs. The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine. Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$79,629.61 – $143,333.31 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift Application Question(s): Do you have knowledge of university policies, administrative structure, and operational procedures? Do you have experience in engineering education and research?

Education:

Doctorate (Required)

Experience:

academia and leadership: 10 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person