Program Coordinator – Tartan Scholars Program (fixed-term)

The Tartan Scholars program is an invitation-only enrichment community at Carnegie Mellon University that serves students who have demonstrated extraordinary academic potential and leadership while navigating limited-resource backgrounds. The program is built on the belief that a student’s financial circumstances should never be a barrier to their success at a world-class institution. Since its inception, the program has achieved a remarkable 99% first-year retention rate, fostering an environment where belonging and excellence are championed equally.
Core Pillars of Support
The program provides a multi-year, holistic commitment to student success through three primary pillars:
Academic Navigation & Mentorship: Scholars participate in specialized pre-fall programming to acclimate to campus life. They receive direct pathways to faculty mentors, deans, and academic advisors, alongside peer mentorship from Tartan Scholar Ambassadors.
Resource Access & Financial Equity: Beyond traditional financial aid, the program facilitates access to emergency funds, tutoring, counseling, and grants for high-impact experiences like undergraduate research, study abroad, and unpaid internships.
Community and Belonging: At its heart, the program is a “family”. Through the dedicated Tartan Scholars Lounge in the Cohon University Center, community meals, and social events, students find a sense of home and a network of peers with shared lived experiences.
Note: This is a fixed term position, expected duration of approximately 6-months.
Core responsibilities include:
The program coordinator will be responsible for providing programming and logistical support for the Tartan Scholars Program. Working directly with the Interim Associate Vice Provost for Student Access Initiatives, the coordinator’s core responsibilities include coordinating a variety of programs and events for the Tartan Scholars program.
Operational & Organizational
Develop, promote, implement, manage, and assess programming designed to create a sense of well-being, belonging and community within the Tartan Scholars program for students, faculty, and staff.
Partner with campus organizations to advance the program’s goals related to community engagement and persistence.
Coordinate and co-manage the Ambassadors/Mentorship Program, including overseeing the application process for new students; hiring, training, and supervising the mentor team; planning and facilitating events; assessing program effectiveness; and ensuring alignment with the office’s mission.
Serve as a liaison to student organizations to provide support, communication, and opportunities for education and collaboration with departmental, college and university student services and affairs.
Assist with the first-year programming by supporting planning, facilitation, and curriculum development to help students transition smoothly into their respective colleges.
Regularly assess the effectiveness of programs and initiatives by leveraging data and feedback to inform improvements while maintaining accurate records of attendance, participation, and engagement.
Manage program budgets, including event expenses, student pay, and other related costs, ensuring alignment with funding guidelines and program objectives.
Performs a variety of routine work within established policies and procedures.
Collaborate with other administrative staff in the offices.
Program and Event Support:
Assist in administering a variety of programs and events for Tartan Scholars. Some examples include pre-fall, community meals, orientation activities, and invited speakers (fall and spring).
Lead planning logistics for programs and events; this may include but is not limited to securing space, catering, technology, and equipment needs; communicating with various internal and external partners about programs and events; managing registration processes; support in securing speakers and communicating with them about various and critical logistics.
Assist in facilitation of programs and events and be present and supportive in carrying them out.
Communications:
Assist and/or lead in the development of myriad marketing materials (electronic, print, etc.) and related communication.
This may include event updates and outreach; newsletter creation and distribution; creating posters and/or flyers; and more.
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:
Facilitation and training skills
Excellent organization skills and attention to detail
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
Excellent analytical, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a culturally diverse environment and interact with campus community and external partners.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with MS Office (specifically Excel, Outlook, Power Point, and Word). Ability to learn a variety of software applications.
Qualifications:
HS Diploma or GED Required; Bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, social work, or a related field preferred.
3-5 years Project Management Experience.
Experience working in the field of higher education related to advancing student services and/or community engagement initiatives preferred.
Experience in advising or mentoring students preferred.
Requirements:
Successful pre-employment background check
Additional Information:
Some evening and weekend hours are required
This is a fixed-term position, expected duration of six-months
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, 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 to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
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
Program, Project and Operations Management
Position Type
Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Hourly
More Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal