Education Director

iSPACE has a small but dedicated and enthusiastic staff that gets kids excited about STEM disciplines through hands-on, minds-on activities. Our mission is to ignite a passion for Science and Technology so that all learners are prepared to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce. Serving students, educators, and communities, iSPACE offers innovative programs and experiences that inspire and empower the next generation of STEM leaders. We seek a self-starter to direct the iSPACE Education Team, deliver STEM programs, and support general operations.

The Education Director at iSPACE will lead the development, execution, and assessment of STEM educational programs. This position ensures that all iSPACE offerings are high-quality, inclusive, and aligned with academic content standards and best practices in STEM education. The Education Director will work closely with staff, educators, and community stakeholders to foster a dynamic and inspiring learning environment that meets the needs of diverse students, including underrepresented groups in STEM.

To align with our internal culture, the successful candidate will have a positive attitude, a team-building spirit, adaptability, and a commitment to outstanding service to internal and external connections in support of our mission. This position reports to the Chief Executive Officer (Sue Hare).

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Management

• Learn iSPACE programming and teach sessions as appropriate.
• Lead the design and implementation of engaging, hands-on STEM curriculum and programs for K-12 students aligned with current STEM standards.
• Coordinate program and initiative development based on industry trends and student needs.
• Coordinate summer camp program offerings and locations and function as camp director/camp director backup.
• Collaborate with the CEO to expand and diversify program offerings and target populations.
• Manage programs and grant projects (such as Making Mathletes), ensuring the budget allocation aligns with program goals.
• Evaluate and manage educational software and technology.

Instructional Leadership

• Recruit, support, and supervise a team of STEM educators and program facilitators, providing training, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
• Foster an inclusive, supportive, and professional learning culture among the educational team.
• Act as back-up educator and assist as needed with program delivery.

Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement

• Cultivate relationships with schools, community organizations, higher education institutions, and industry partners to enhance program reach, impact, and sustainability.
• Serve as an ambassador for iSPACE in the STEM community and represent the organization at events and conferences.
• Work with local school districts and educators to develop programs that address local and regional STEM education needs.

Evaluation, Continuous Improvement, and Resource Development

• Develop metrics and tools to assess the impact and effectiveness of educational programs and grant projects, using data to drive improvements.
• Collaborate with the development team to identify and secure funding and evaluate and report program outcomes to funders and stakeholders.

Additional Functions:

• Assist with event planning.
• Serve on the Education Advisory Board.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, STEM, or related field; advanced degree in Education, STEM Education, or Educational Leadership preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in STEM education, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and program management in a STEM setting.
• Strong understanding of current STEM education standards and teaching practices.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Experience in budget management, data-driven program evaluation, and grant writing is preferred.
• Passion for iSPACE’s mission and a commitment to equal opportunities for high-quality STEM experiences for all children.
• Microsoft Suite experience, especially Excel. (Required)
• Outlook experience. (Preferred)
• Collaborative leadership style: Has a positive attitude and is appreciative, a team player, flexible, and willing to work in a non-profit setting with a small staff. Enthusiasm is desired.

Physical Requirements:

• Requires finger dexterity, repetitive motions, talking, hearing, and visual acuity.

iSPACE is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. At iSPACE, we honor, appreciate, and recognize our employees and respect their uniqueness. Having diverse experiences, backgrounds, and cultures broadens our horizons, enriches our lives, and promotes valuing others. iSPACE is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel welcome.