CSL connects corporations, startups, students, faculty, investors, and ecosystem partners as part of CMU's broader innovation ecosystem. Through its programs, CSL applies startup and venture principles across all of its offerings, which include a capstone project course, a Fellows program, and a range of public-facing events and convenings. Joining CSL offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of corporate engagement, entrepreneurship, venture-backed startups, and higher education in a highly collaborative and evolving environment.
The Academic Program Manager, Corporate Startup Lab (CSL) leads the delivery, and continuous improvement of CSL's academic and student-facing programs, including the CSL Capstone Project Course and Fellows Program. This position reports to the Director of the Corporate Startup Lab.
The role focuses on managing complex experiential learning programs that connect students and fellows with corporations, startups, and faculty, while navigating a dynamic academic environment with multiple stakeholders and evolving program needs. The ideal candidate is comfortable exercising judgment, managing ambiguity, and executing programs in real time while maintaining a high-quality student and partner experience.
Core Responsibilities include:
Lead the planning, delivery, and execution of CSL's academic programs, including the Capstone Project Course and Fellows Program
Manage student recruitment, application review, interviews, selection, and onboarding (including NDAs and required documentation)
Provide ongoing program management and student support throughout the academic term, adapting to changing needs and timelines
Coordinate closely with faculty, Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, corporate partners, and startups to ensure program alignment and outcomes
Serve as the primary operational point of contact for partners engaged in CSL academic programs
Manage academic program agreements and coordination with CMU offices (e.g., EPAs, OSP processes, gift agreements)
Lead the academic and student-facing components of CSL's Case Competition, including outreach, application review, and student coordination
Build and maintain strong working relationships across CMU academic units, graduate programs, and student organizations
Navigate and align diverse stakeholder priorities within a complex institutional environment
Other duties as assigned
Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.
You should demonstrate:
Strong program management, organizational, and stakeholder coordination skills, with experience working closely with students, faculty, and external partners.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously and adapt priorities as organizational needs evolve.
Comfortable working independently in fast-paced, dynamic, and sometimes ambiguous environments, while also collaborating effectively with a small, cross-functional team in settings similar to startup or entrepreneurial organizations.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
3+ years of relevant experience in academic program management, experiential learning, higher education administration, or related roles required
A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
Requirements:
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/eligibility/index.html) employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/health-welfare/index.html) as well as a generous retirement savings program (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/retirement-savings/index.html) with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/tuition/index.html) , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/time-away/pto.html) and observed holidays (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/time-away/holidays.html) , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/work-life/support/family-child-care-resources/index.html) to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access (https://athletics.cmu.edu/recreation/facilities) ,and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/index.html) **.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location**
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Academic Program Administration
Position Type
Staff - Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information:
Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon (http://www.cmu.edu/jobs/why-cmu/index.html) " to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here (https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/benefits-at-a-glance/) to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .
Statement of Assurance (https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/statement-of-assurance.html)
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If your heart is in your work, come work with us. Carnegie Mellon University isn't just one of the world's most renowned educational institutions - it's also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference-makers on the planet. When you join our staff, you'll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, you'll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues - and you'll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters.
We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, you'll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni.
The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of what's next. Apply now.
Learn more about Student Employment (https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/student-employment/index.html) .
Please see Faculty Careers. (https://www.cmu.edu/faculty-office/faculty-recruitment/faculty-careers.html)
For technical assistance, email HR Services (hr-help@andrew.cmu.edu) or call 412-268-4600.
If you are an individual with a disability and you require assistance with the job application process, please email Equal Opportunity Services (employeeaccess@andrew.cmu.edu) or call 412-268-3930.
Prospective Employee Disclosures (https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/disclosures/index.html)
