We're Hiring!
Position: Director of Education
Start Date: As soon as possible
Job Status: Full-Time, Salaried Exempt
Salary Range: $68,000 to $75,000
The Director of Education will play a vital role in setting the vision and tone for our education programming, growing the reach and impact of the services we provide, and helping inspire new leaders to act to protect the environment. You will fill a critical leadership role by disseminating important and current scientific information, sparking curiosity and love for birds and nature, and empowering youth, families, the general public, and our team of dedicated staff and volunteers. At times, the Director of Education will need to act as an ambassador for SDBA to forge new partnerships and share the successes of our programs. The Director of Education will report directly to the Executive Director and work closely with the entire staff and Board of Directors.
Duties & Responsibilities
Education Department Development (60%)
- Collaborate with the Executive Director, supporting staff, and committees to execute SDBA Strategic Plan Goals and Objectives
- Set vision and plan for enhancement and expansion of school-based (in school and after-school), and public programs to include:
- Increased revenue generation through grants and fee-based programming
- Personnel (staff, volunteers, committees, etc.) structure to support
- Develop and manage the department’s budget
- Collaborate with Philanthropy staff in identifying and obtaining funds/grants and stewarding funding relationships. Complete grant reports and invoices
- Perform other duties as assigned
Program Administration (40%)
- Provide overall management and supervision to all programs, including:
- Provide overall management and supervision of the current education staff, including the Education Manager, Public Programs Manager, and part-time Naturalists
- Hire, train, schedule, and supervise education staff and volunteers
- Plan and facilitate all education department trainings and meetings
- Develop/implement education department policies and procedures
- Develop new, innovative educational program offerings to children and adults
- Develop/implement assessment through surveys and evaluations
- Set program/project goals and objectives
- Oversee our education communications (Sketches, e-Newletter, SDBA website)
- Work with property managers and the property stewardship committee to enhance educational programs and projects at our sanctuaries, with a special focus on engaging children and providing family-friendly activities
- Collaborate with the Operations Manager to recruit, educate, mentor, supervise, and organize volunteers to support and implement volunteer-based education programs and projects
In School and After-School specific
- Ensure inclusion of local elements, NGSS, and STEaM initiatives
- Develop and facilitate partnerships within the community
- Manage the education department’s program schedule, to include correspondences with teachers, after-school providers, partners and SDAS Naturalists
- Review, edit, and organize program materials, including program presentations, handouts, classroom and field trip material bins, and planting/restoration tools
- Participate as a Naturalist in San Diego Bird Alliance's education programs to ensure the quality and effectiveness of program delivery
Public Program specific
- Support planning and execution of the SDBA 75th Anniversary Community Celebration in October (one-time event)
- Collaborate with the Public Programs Manager to develop and offer public programs to diverse audiences throughout San Diego
- Develop partnerships with organizations that can build our public program audience and membership
- Support with the planning and execution of the Bird Festival and the strategic deployment of the organization staff to support the event
Desired Skills and Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s Degree or higher degree in one of the biological sciences or education
- At least 5 years’ experience in supervision within a formal or informal education institution or museum
- At least 5 years’ experience in developing and delivering grant-supported or fee-based environmentally themed interpretive programming in an informal education institution or museum
- Understanding, interest, and knowledge of regional habitats, flora, and fauna
- Demonstrated cultural competency and actionable knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion
- Strong English language communication skills, both written and verbal
- A personal passion for connecting kids to nature
- Experience identifying grant opportunities, writing grants, and grant administration/reporting
- Strong budget and project management skills
- Strong supervisory and demonstrated leadership skills and abilities. Proven track record in complex social environments.
- Very organized and able to set priorities and handle multiple tasks
- Hard working, self-motivated, and able to work in a team setting
- Advanced proficiency with PC-based software, including Microsoft Office suite
- Other desirable skills and qualifications include a teaching credential and bilingual communication in Spanish (spoken and/or written)
Other Job Requirements
- Requires working up to one Saturday per month and occasional evenings
- Must have a valid driver’s license, excellent driving record, and reliable personal vehicle
- Satisfactory background check required prior to hiring
- Must be comfortable working in outdoor settings and may require hiking or lifting (as able)
Salary, Benefits & Terms
This is a full time (40hr/wk), salaried exempt position with a wage range of $68,000 to $75,000 per year, commensurate upon experience. We are committed to providing an inclusive work environment, including flexible work schedules, telework options, 100% healthcare premium, generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday time, and SIMPLE-IRA 3% matching retirement benefit after the first calendar year of employment. Benefit details provided by request.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Statement on Diversity
San Diego Bird Alliance is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, or other applicable legally-protected characteristics. San Diego Audubon is committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment reflecting the diversity of our community in its board, staff, volunteers, and members and ensuring its internal culture, business practices, and programs are welcoming and advance its diversity goals.
How To Apply
Email cover letter and resume as a single PDF to jobs@sandiegoaudubon.org with “Director of Education” in the subject line. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Applications in other formats, such as Word documents, will also be accepted but cover letter and resume must be combined into one document. No phone calls, please.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position may be filled at any time.
