Assistant Director of Continuing & Professional Studies in Portland, Maine at MAINE COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

Position Description: Assistant Director of Continuing & Professional StudiesDepartment: Continuing & Professional Studies

Reports to: Director of Continuing & Professional Studies

Date: June 22, 2026

FLSA: Exempt

Status: Full-Time

Months: 12

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Basic Function:

The Assistant Director of Continuing & Professional Studies supports the Director of Continuing & Professional Studies in managing and advancing the department's programs, including adult + youth education, Pre-College, and registration. This role oversees program operations, enhances student and faculty experience, and ensures effective communication and coordination across the department. The Assistant Director is instrumental in providing high-quality customer service, supporting program development, and maintaining accurate records.

Responsibilities:

Oversee Program Operations: Manage logistics for Continuing Studies and Pre-College programs, including registration, keys, packets, classroom setups, and communication with key stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.

Support Faculty and Students: Serve as a primary point of contact for faculty and students, providing guidance, support, and assistance with course logistics, registrations, and departmental policies.

Develop and Expand Programs: Collaborate with the Director to plan, develop, and implement new course offerings that align with the institution’s mission and student interests.

Lead Pre-College Program Administration: Oversee all aspects of the Pre-College program, including policy development and communication with families to create a cohesive and enriching experience.

Coordinate Marketing and Recruitment Efforts: Assist with targeted marketing campaigns, proofread and edit promotional materials, contribute to social media strategies, and represent the department at events, including open houses and recruitment activities.

Maintain Data and Records: Manage student database systems with high accuracy, including data entry, tracking registrations, managing waiting lists, and generating reports.

Enhance Community Engagement: Visit studio classes to support faculty and students, document activities for promotional use, and foster a strong sense of community within the department.

Foster Collaboration Across Departments: Work closely with Student Life, Residential Education, Admissions, and other teams to align Continuing Studies and Pre-College programs with institutional goals and resources.

Ensure Effective Communication: Facilitate clear, consistent communication with faculty, staff, and students about course updates, policies, and program details across channels.

Provide Administrative Leadership: Supervise day-to-day departmental operations and assist the Director with strategic planning and special projects to advance the mission of Continuing & Professional Studies.

Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in education, arts administration, business, or a related field or equivalent work experience is required.

Experience:

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in program management, continuing education, or a related field, preferably within higher education or the arts;

Proven track record of managing multiple programs, coordinating logistics, and meeting deadlines;

Experience working with diverse populations, including youth and adult learners;

Proficiency in using database management systems and tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and CRM software.

Demonstrated success in developing and implementing marketing and recruitment strategies.

Skills and Abilities:

Strong ability to manage complex operations, prioritize tasks, and oversee multiple projects simultaneously;

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including crafting clear, professional emails, reports, and

promotional materials;

Comfortable presenting at events and engaging with diverse audiences, including students, families, and community

members;

Experience with social media platforms and digital marketing tools to promote programs effectively;

Strong customer service orientation with the ability to build positive relationships with faculty, staff, and students;

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders;

Creative and flexible approach to problem-solving in a dynamic, fast-paced environment;

Ability to adapt to shifting priorities while maintaining high-quality work standards;

Understanding of and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity, equity, and social responsibility;

Ability to develop and expand programs that align with institutional goals and respond to market and student needs;

Experience evaluating program performance and implementing improvements based on data and feedback.

Other duties:

Please note that this job description is not intended to cover or provide a comprehensive listing of the activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Essential Functions & Work Environment:

The Assistant Director of Continuing & Professional Studies provides operational, administrative, and programmatic leadership for Continuing Studies, Pre-College, and related educational initiatives. Essential duties include coordinating program logistics; managing registration and student records; supporting faculty, students, and families; developing and implementing new programs and initiatives; assisting with marketing and recruitment efforts; analyzing data and preparing reports; fostering collaboration across departments; supporting strategic planning and special projects; and serving as a visible representative of the department at campus and community events. The position requires regular communication and interaction with students, faculty, staff, families, community partners, and external stakeholders. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

This position operates across office, classroom, studio, event, and virtual environments. The employee routinely uses computers, database systems, audiovisual technology, and standard office equipment. The position requires the ability to remain stationary for extended periods; frequently operate a computer and related technology; move throughout campus facilities, classrooms, residence halls, and event spaces; and communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through virtual platforms. The employee may occasionally lift, carry, or transport materials and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds and may be required to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours during peak registration periods, Pre-College programming, recruitment events, and other departmental activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Maine College of Art & Design is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We ensure a workplace free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply, and selection decisions are made based on individual merit and institutional needs.

Signatures

This job description has been approved by:

Manager______________________________________ Date ________________

HR__________________________________________ Date _________________

The signature below indicates the employee's understanding of the position's requirements, essential functions, and duties.

Employee______________________________________ Date_________________