Program Assistant/Associate of the Center for Public Service

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) is seeking applicants for a full-time appointment as Program Associate/Assistant for the Center for Public Service, starting as soon as possible. The position will focus on coordinating the Center's signature programs, including the federally-funded UPIKE Civic Educators Fellowship, the Allegheny Civic Fellowship, and other new initiatives currently in the works.

In a region too often overlooked, the University of Pikeville Center for Public Service has taken up the patient work of civic renewal. Founded on the conviction that leadership begins with service, the Center cultivates thoughtful, engaged citizens who understand the traditions that shaped American democracy and who possess the skills to sustain it.

Applicants must have a solid commitment to civic education, public service, and working in a small university setting, with the ability to work effectively with others in a collegial environment dedicated to student learning and community engagement. Preference will be given to candidates who have strong grant writing, event planning, and nonprofit experience.

The Program Associate/Assistant will work closely with the Director of the Center for Public Service to ensure that the Center operates with both efficiency and vision, serving as a cornerstone of public-facing academic life at UPIKE. The ideal candidate will be proactive, detail-oriented, and mission-driven. 

Responsibilities:

• Consistently identify, draft, and submit grant proposals aligned with the Center's mission and needs. 
• Direct the implementation and logistical management of the UPIKE Civic Educators Fellowship, including coordination with teachers, scheduling, compliance reporting, and program evaluation. 
• Oversee day-to-day coordination of the Allegheny Civic Fellowship, including student support, scheduling, and partnership management with teaching staff. 
• Manage the daily operations of any Public Service Scholars program that may be created, including mentoring, programming, academic advising support, and reporting. 
• Maintain a dynamic and organized schedule for the Director of the Center for Public Service. 
• Assist the Director in maintaining close relations with key community leaders, school districts, and external partners. 
• Draft and distribute promotional materials for Center programs, both print and digital. 
• Develop and manage the Center's social media presence, highlighting ongoing initiatives and student success.
• Support public events, guest speakers, Constitution Day programming, and community outreach efforts.
• Maintain organized internal systems for tracking deadlines, program metrics, and communications.
• Perform other related activities as assigned. 

Education/Skill Requirements: 

• A bachelor's degree is required. A master's degree in political science, public administration, education, humanities, communication, or a related field is a plus but not required.  
• Strong writing and communication skills are essential. 
• Experience with grant writing, program management, or nonprofit administration is preferred. 
• Familiarity with event coordination and digital engagement (social media, website management, communications) is preferred. 
• Any experience working in Appalachia or rural communities should be mentioned. 
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent programs and work independently with minimal supervision. 

Application review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applications received on or before 07/2112026 will be given priority consideration.

Important Notes: Resume and other application materials will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. Please, specifically address the qualifications, competencies and desired qualifications in your resume and application materials.

The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.

The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.

For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit http://www.upike.edu. In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current resume, and contact information for three to five professional references.