The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has launched a new initiative that will propel women and underrepresented groups into higher education and careers in tech through curriculum innovation, career access and community development. This initiative is part of a broader multi-year national effort, Break Through Tech, with UIC serving as the academic partner and liaison to Chicago’s tech ecosystem. Seeking a mission-oriented Associate Director to advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in tech, with an emphasis on establishing company allies and partnerships.

This position directs, plans and implements the career development functions for female and female identifying undergraduate students in tech disciplines at UIC by expanding UIC’s presence with local, regional and national employers. Strategic partnerships with employers and/or workforce development organizations will be evaluated and pursued. Leads the career preparation of current and prospective undergraduate students by utilizing best practices and developing strategies and programs. This is a full-time position based in Chicago with significant industry exposure and ability to exercise leadership skills.

For fullest consideration, please submit by January 20, 2021.

Main Duties

• Promote and generate visibility of UIC women pursuing tech disciplines in the College of Engineering and other UIC colleges with regional and national employers who seek to diversify their talent pool.
• Identify and cultivate employer relationships for the purpose of hiring target UIC students for internships and full-time positions.
• Explore partnerships with local Chicago and national workforce development organizations with aligned interests.
• Lead program management of student internship and other career focused programs in collaboration with the Engineering Career Center and other applicable UIC college career centers.
• Monitor, analyze success metrics and implement improvements.
• Develop and execute a plan for undergraduate students to become career ready and seamlessly transition from academic to workplace settings.
• Participate as part of a team in university careers fairs and other employer facing programs.
• Develop an alumni support network, particularly women alumni in tech careers, accessible to current students.
• Regular travel not expected but will occur occasionally mostly around scheduled events in the Chicagoland area.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 5 years of progressive experience leading, executing and/or developing programs in an academic, corporate, and/or start-up environment that has a technology orientation and/or focus on talent management, strategic partnerships, career advising, marketing, or other business areas. 8+ years of experience preferred
• Proficient at using tools to develop communication aids and to perform analysis
• Comfortable being a public spokesperson for the program when communicating with all stakeholders
• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain a positive rapport with students, professors, and corporate leaders; strong interpersonal skills
• Analytical, creative thinker with strong organizational and process skills
• Committed to working with diverse student and community populations