Academic Innovation & AI Strategist

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $70,000 to $75,000. Hiring offers will be determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience. The recruiter can share more information about what the anticipated hiring salary would be based upon your specific qualifications during the selection process.

The CIA offers a substantial benefits package that includes medical coverage available at no cost to qualifying employees, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, short and long term disability insurance, retirement savings plan with high employer contributions, a generous paid time off program, and more!

As the benefits package at the CIA results in a significant value above the base hiring salary for this position, we encourage you to apply so that our recruiters can share more information with you about the benefits of working for the CIA.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Academic Innovation & AI Strategist is a pedagogical leader responsible for the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence into the teaching and learning ecosystem. Utilizing evidence-based instructional design strategies, this role bridges the gap between emerging technology and culinary education. The Strategist serves as a primary consultant to faculty, helping them redesign curricula and assessments to leverage AI effectively. A key component of this role is the formal development of institutional policies that ensure ethical AI use and uphold the highest standards of academic integrity.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Partner with faculty to redesign course modules using instructional design frameworks (e.g., ADDIE, Backward Design) to ensure AI tools enhance student engagement and learning.
• Architect and deliver high-impact workshops and learning resources that move beyond technical basics to focus on AI-driven teaching methodologies.
• Consult on the development of authentic assessments that mitigate academic integrity risks while teaching students to use AI as a professional tool for the hospitality industry.
• Develop specialized training for the Food, Beverage, and Hospitality industry to prepare students for a tech-enhanced professional landscape.
• Lead the formal development, implementation, and maintenance of institutional policies regarding AI and academic integrity.
• Develop clear guidelines and sample syllabus language for faculty and students on the appropriate use of AI tools in various academic contexts.
• Serve as the primary advisor to academic leadership on ethical frameworks, data privacy, and the long-term impact of AI on the CIA curriculum, LMS & Impact Analysis:
• Optimize the integration of AI tools within Moodle and other academic technologies to streamline the student and faculty experience. / Identify and pilot AI applications specifically for the culinary arts, such as tools for recipe development, sustainability modeling, and sensory science.
• Develop and track key metrics to measure the adoption and effectiveness of AI tools in the classroom, reporting findings and pedagogical recommendations to the Senior Dean.
• Any and all other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFCATIONS

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Education, Instructional Design Technology, Education Technology, or a closely related field.

Experience:

Minimum of 1 year of demonstrated experience in a role involving educational technology, instructional design, or the application of emerging technologies within an academic or professional training environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFCATIONS

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Direct experience working in a higher education environment, supporting faculty and academic programs.
• Experience in the formal development and implementation of institutional policies related to technology and academic integrity.
• Experience conducting or supporting formal research projects.
• Experience with implementation of transformative educational technology.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Strong understanding of core AI concepts (e.g., machine learning, large language models, natural language processing) and their practical applications in education.
• Hands-on proficiency with a range of AI tools and platforms relevant to pedagogy and research.
• Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS), such as Moodle, and their integration with third-party educational technologies.
• Ability to synthesize outcomes from AI projects and pilots to assess effectiveness and inform strategy.
• Proven ability to architect, develop, and deliver effective training programs, workshops, and learning resources (videos, tutorials, guides) for a diverse faculty audience.
• Strong instructional design skills with an understanding of how to effectively integrate technology into curriculum to enhance learning.
• Comprehensive knowledge of AI ethics, data privacy, security, and compliance considerations within an academic context.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-expert audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships and foster a community of practice among faculty and academic staff.
• Proven skill in facilitating productive discussions and workshops that drive technology integration and innovation.
• Comfort working with autonomy on a range of evolving projects within a structure that emphasizes shared learning, transparency, and support.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and change management skills, with the ability to support and guide faculty through technological transitions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Regular work requires the use of a computer, sometimes in excess of eight (8) hours per day.
• Must be available to work nights and weekends as required due to business needs.