"Assistant Director OCOP"

Assistant Director OCOP

Recruitment #: S2566

Review Date: Open | Review begins 10/27/25

Department: Oregon Council of Presidents

Salary Rate: $80,000 - $100,000

About Western Oregon University:

Western Oregon University is a regional public, mid-sized university – committed to changing lives, strengthening communities and transforming our world. Located in Monmouth, the heart of Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, WOU is about 20 minutes from Salem, the state’s capital and about 75 minutes from Portland, the state’s cultural hub.

Western is one of Oregon’s oldest public institutions of higher education and was incorporated into the state system as a teacher training institution in 1882. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in arts and sciences, education and professional areas. It’s known for small class sizes, a focus on sustainability and a diverse liberal arts education in a student-centered environment. Western is a Hispanic Serving institution, with over 40% of undergraduates being students of color.

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director reports to the Executive Director of OPU, the Coalition of Oregon Public Universities (formerly OCOP). This is a full-time, multi-year, unclassified position at Western Oregon University. All OPU staff are employees of Western Oregon University, which serves as the Host University for OPU. The Assistant Director supports the Executive Director and OPU in advocacy efforts around universities’ shared interests and is accountable for supporting implementation of the strategic direction for all OPU's mission and programs. The Assistant Director will develop a deep knowledge of Oregon's seven universities, as well as the legislative committees and public agency entities with which they interact. The Assistant Director leads communication, research, and project management needs while assisting the Executive Director in coalition-building efforts by building and maintaining exceptional relationships with university and other higher education leaders, as well as students, businesses, labor, and other stakeholders.

Click here for the complete position description which includes knowledge areas and preferred qualifications.

Required Qualifications:

Please ensure your application materials clearly demonstrate how you meet the following:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 3–5 years’ Experience and familiarity with internal and external communications
• 3–5 years Past success working with a board of directors or equivalent
• 3–5 years Demonstrated experience in government relations and legislative advocacy, executing successful strategic agendas
• 3–5 years Demonstrated experience in project management, collaboration, administrative duties, and supporting executives

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please upload the following required materials within the application portal.

Applications missing any of the required documents will not move forward for consideration. Please include only the materials listed below:

1. WOU Employment Application form available here - unclassified/faculty
2. Cover Letter that outlines your qualifications and how they align with the position
3. Resume/CV
4. Unofficial transcripts for your highest degree earned
5. Complete and submit the Reference Check form, available here along with your application
6. *Candidates invited to interview will be asked to provide a writing sample prior to the scheduled interview.*

Background/Education Check:

A criminal background check will be completed as a condition of employment. Education checks are processed for positions requiring a formal degree as a minimum requirement.

Benefits:

Western Oregon University offers an excellent benefits package for eligible employees which includes 95% premium paid healthcare, a generous retirement and vacation package, and reduced tuition rates for employee, spouse or dependent at any of the Oregon Public Universities. http://www.wou.edu/hr/benefits/