MAS Executive Director
The Board of Directors for the Minnesota Academy of Science is seeking a visionary and strategic leader with a passion for promoting STEM engagement at all levels who also possesses outstanding management skills.
The Minnesota Academy of Science is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. The Mission of The Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) is to advance science, technology, engineering and math in Minnesota by connecting aspiring STEM students and practicing STEM professionals with resources and opportunities to engage in STEM learning, research and communication, and to recognize excellence in these areas.
The major activities of the MAS are to run high-level State STEM competitions that include:
Middle School and High School Science Bowl
Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
State Science & Engineering Fair
Winchell Undergraduate Research Symposium
MAS also sponsors a developmental science research program for underrepresented students called FORSE.
The Executive Director (ED) provides leadership to advance the initiatives of the organization. The ED has the ultimate management responsibility either directly or through delegated authority. The director designs and implements strategic goals and objectives of the organization in conjunction with, and at the direction of, the Board of Directors.
Job Description
Adhere to and promote the mission and vision of MAS
Administer programs of MAS
Hire, oversee and maintain an effective staff
Work with volunteers
Report on activities and financial status to the board on a regular basis
Attend after-hours board meetings and MAS sponsored events
Fundraising to maintain current donor base and cultivate new donors
Develop and maintain an effective working relationship with the community, sponsors, educational and corporate leaders, regional STEM directors and related national organizations
Ensure compliance with organizational by-laws, and state, federal, and other external organization regulations
Manage the financial resources under the advisement of the board hired CPA and external investment advisors to ensure it operates with efficiency and effectiveness
Essential Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or higher
Management experience in a non-profit, educational or corporate environment
Ability to support an environment that is equitable, diverse and inclusive
Excellent leadership, supervisory and organizational skills
Ability to build relationships/networks for external and internal collaboration
Outstanding oral and written communications skills
Background in corporate fundraising
Grants and contract writing experience
Ability to plan program activities (setting objectives, developing strategies, budgeting, develop policies and procedures, measure success)
Knowledge of budgeting processes and general computer technology
US citizen or legally authorized to work in the US
Preferred Qualifications
STEM field/education experience
Master’s degree
Social media marketing experience
The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years’ experience and a proven record of outstanding management skills in a non-profit organization reliant upon corporate and individual donations and grants. The candidate will be a key communicator, both internally and externally, with a passion for promoting the academy’s activities and mission.
The starting salary will be $60,000. For most weeks of the years, this is a 30 hours/week position. The schedule might go up to 40 hours/week during the program months due to the cyclical nature of the program schedule. The Executive Director may work from home when staff is not in the office. Paid time off and sick leave are included. This position does not provide health benefits.
MAS is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.
To be considered, please email a cover letter and resumé to the Search Committee at:
