Director of Business Administration - 137565

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

8622 Kennel Way, San Diego, CA 92037, United States

#137565 Director of Business Administration

Filing Deadline : Fri 1 / 16 / 2026

Apply Now

UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and / or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 12 / 11 / 25 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Director of Business Administration provides critical support for the executive team and oversight for Birch Aquarium's financial, human resources, business systems, and administrative operations. Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Chief Guest Experience and Business Development Officer and the Chief Animal Care, Science and Conservation Officer, the Director supports the executive team, ensuring that operational excellence, fiscal integrity, and strategic alignment drive the Aquarium's mission and goals.

Birch Aquarium operates as a self-supporting unit of the University, receiving no core funds and managing its financial affairs as a sustainable business where earned and contributed revenues must exceed expenses to produce a positive annual net result. The Director supports this model through comprehensive financial leadership, developing and implementing strategies that sustain and grow an annual $15M+ budget. The incumbent applies advanced analytical and business management skills to conduct forecasting, scenario modeling, and resource planning, ensuring effective financial oversight and discipline across diverse functional areas including Administration, Education, Guest Services, Events, Exhibits, Facilities, Marketing, Cafe, Store, and Animal Care.

In addition to fiscal leadership, the Director oversees the Aquarium's human resources and workforce development programs, managing recruitment, classification, compensation, performance evaluation, and employee relations in coordination with VCMS HR and Campus HR. The position supervises professional and analytical staff and fosters a workplace culture emphasizing equity, accountability, and professional growth.

The Director also provides strategic direction for administrative systems and IT governance, overseeing system integration across finance, HR, and guest operations, ensuring compliance with UC San Diego policy, PCI DSS, CANRA, and privacy standards. Acting as the principal liaison with Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the Vice Chancellor Marine Sciences Office, and campus administrative offices, the Director represents Birch Aquarium on institutional business and policy matters, helping shape operational practices that advance efficiency, compliance, and sustainability across all departments.

Through strategic leadership and comprehensive oversight, this position ensures the continued fiscal health, operational excellence, and organizational strength that allow Birch Aquarium to fulfill its mission and contribute to the public, educational, and scientific goals of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and UC San Diego.

QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced knowledge of a variety of administrative operational activities such as event planning, basic fundraising processes, risk management planning, website design, accounting and payroll, and contracts and grants regulations and guidelines.

Advanced skills in short- and long-term strategic planning, analysis, problem-solving and customer service.

Advanced analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills; ability to evaluate complex issues and develop innovative solutions.

Advanced knowledge of financial analysis and reporting techniques, and / or human resources policies and procedures for staff and academic employees.

Proven ability to develop, mentor, and lead professional staff in a collaborative, service-oriented environment.

Advanced knowledge of University rules and regulations, processes, protocols and procedures for budget, accounting and fund management, and / or personnel management.

Ability to use discretion and maintain confidentiality.

Ability to work effectively across academic, research, and operational environments and communicate with diverse stakeholders.

Experience designing and implementing internal controls, audit readiness, and policy documentation systems.

Advanced knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs.

Advanced interpersonal skills including verbal and written communication, active listening, critical thinking, persuasiveness, advising and counseling skills.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) training will be required. Must meet CANRA compliance requirements per the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act ("CANRA," Penal Code sections 11164-11174.4).

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range : $88,000 - $161,600 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent : $42.15 - $77.39

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

Apply Now

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit : https : / / policy.ucop.edu / doc / 1001004 / Anti-Discrimination

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Apply