Assistant Director of Accreditation and Operations

The Kansas Fire & Rescue Training Institute (KFRTI), a distinguished unit of Jayhawk Global, is dedicated to providing comprehensive training and credentialing to firefighters and emergency service personnel across Kansas. Established in 1949 by the Kansas legislature, KFRTI plays a vital role in enhancing the safety and preparedness of local fire departments by delivering innovative, accessible, and science-driven educational opportunities. Operating from the Lawrence campus, the Institute serves as a statewide resource offering hundreds of training and certification events in communities throughout Kansas each year, facilitating the development of highly skilled fire service professionals.

Jayhawk Global, the parent organization of KFRTI, is an education innovation center that provides non-traditional learner engagement through online degree programs, professional and workforce development, certifications, competency-based education, and more. Serving all 105 Kansas counties, multiple US states, and international communities, Jayhawk Global collaborates closely with University of Kansas academic units to promote advanced educational opportunities at various levels.

The Assistant Director of Accreditation and Operations is a pivotal leadership role within KFRTI, responsible for overseeing all aspects of unit operations and aligning them with the organization's strategic initiatives. This position encompasses management of day-to-day administrative functions, financial oversight including budget and grant funding, and the accreditation and credentialing processes essential to maintaining high program standards. The Assistant Director will supervise various administrative staff and student workers, ensuring alignment with the broader goals of KU Jayhawk Global and KFRTI. This role requires an individual who is adept at strategic planning, collaboration, organizational management, and innovative program development.

Key operational responsibilities include supervising administrative and certification operations, managing the University of Kansas Fire and Emergency Services Administration Degree Program, and overseeing special projects related to fire schools, forums, and conferences. The Assistant Director is also charged with developing policies and procedures, preparing evaluations, participating in university and fire organization committees, and ensuring smooth coordination between KFRTI teams.

Financial stewardship is a critical component of this role, involving collaboration with KUCR to handle grants such as AFG and NFA, overseeing contracts, securing resources through strategic partnerships, managing unrestricted and restricted funding, and supervising internal financial processes. The Assistant Director will also work with program managers to develop cost analysis metrics that optimize course offerings and program delivery.

In terms of credentialing and accreditation, this position leads the development and oversight of compliance with national certification standards, manages certification program budgets, and maintains relationships with key accrediting bodies including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), and ProBoard. The Assistant Director also oversees technological initiatives such as the KITE computerized testing system to ensure effective implementation of assessment programs.

As a strategic leader, the Assistant Director contributes to KFRTI's and Jayhawk Global's long-term planning, serving as a unit leader in the absence of the Director and Assistant Director of Training. This role demands strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and the ability to foster professional development within the team while driving forward innovative training solutions that meet the evolving needs of the fire service community.

The University of Kansas offers a generous benefits package including paid vacation and sick leave, retirement programs, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, life and disability coverage, additional benefit options, and various employee discounts. Furthermore, educational and professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance up to 12 credit hours per year and dependent tuition scholarships, promote lifelong learning and growth within an inclusive and supportive work environment. The KU culture emphasizes belonging, respect, and continuous improvement, providing a foundation for employees to achieve their highest potential through a collaborative and caring workplace.