IISC Assistant Director
The Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) is a program based at the University of Iowa that partners UI faculty and students with communities across the state to address local needs and opportunities. By engaging faculty and students from various academic departments, the IISC helps address real-world challenges faced by local governments and organizations, such as economic development, environmental sustainability, urban planning, and public health. Through collaborative partnerships, students gain practical experience while communities benefit from fresh perspectives and innovative solutions tailored to their unique needs. The program strengthens university-community relationships and fosters long-term sustainability and resilience across Iowa.
IISC seeks to hire an Assistant Director to support the program’s mission, development, and long-term sustainability. The IISC Assistant Director will work alongside the IISC Director to manage day-to-day operations and to develop and execute strategic program development initiatives. The IISC Assistant Director will manage community partnerships, support faculty and student projects, and lead strategic communication efforts. They will also work closely with the Director on fundraising and development efforts, strategic planning, and optimizing IISC service delivery methods.
This is a 75% time position for 12 months, with potential to be full-time (optionally) and extended beyond one-year. The Assistant Director may also have an opportunity to increase their appointment by serving as an adjunct instructor for a course in the School of Planning and Public Affairs. Minimal travel will be involved.
Specific duties and responsibilities include:
- Working closely with UI faculty, students and community partners to support community engagement projects
- Providing administrative support to IISC collaborations between faculty, students, and external partners
- Leading IISC’s application recruitment process for new community partnerships
- Developing and implementing new service delivery methods and models for collaboration
- Supporting program development and fundraising efforts
- Leading strategic communication efforts, including social media and newsletters
- Reviewing and editing IIWC work products
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact adrian-cunningham@uiowa.edu
Required Qualifications:
- A Master's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
- Applicable experience (typically 1 to 3 years) in a program administration or community engagement role is required.
- Working knowledge and evidence of success in organizing and planning tasks, maintaining attention to detail and in meeting deadlines is required.
- Extensive knowledge of, and ability to use computer software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software is required.
- Ability to periodically travel to various communities within Iowa (5-10 times a year); with occasional overnight stays (2-3 times per year) is required.
- Knowledge and application of the communication techniques and relationship building skills that develop the ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and collaborative manner is required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
- Strong attention to detail.
Desired qualifications
- Related administrative services coordination experience is desired.
- Working knowledge and experience with community engagement practices is desired.
- Some knowledge of University of Iowa policies, procedures and regulations is desired.
The hiring salary for the Assistant Director position at 75% is $50,000. Healthcare benefits are included.
Application Details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Adrian Cunningham at adrian-cunningham@uiowa.edu.
Benefits Highlights:
Regular salaried position. Pay Level 5A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
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About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
