Science Vortex Executive Director
| Location: Cottonwood, Arizona Position: Full-time, 40 hours per week, Flexible hours Starting Salary: $50,000–$70,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications Application Deadline: November 18, 2026 Ideal Start Date: Mid-January 2027 (flexible) Full Transition of Responsibilities: May 15, 2027 About Science Vortex: Science Vortex of the Verde Valley is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making science accessible, engaging, and inspiring through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. Located in rural Northern Arizona, we believe everyone deserves opportunities to explore, discover, and experience the excitement of science, regardless of geography or resources. As a small, community-driven organization with an annual operating budget of less than $200,000, Science Vortex offers a unique opportunity for a creative, resourceful, and entrepreneurial leader to make a meaningful impact while helping shape the organization's future. Opportunity: We are seeking a passionate and motivated Executive Director to lead Science Vortex into its next chapter. This is a hands-on leadership position that combines nonprofit management, educational programming, fundraising, and community engagement. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors to oversee daily operations, strengthen financial sustainability, develop engaging STEAM experiences, cultivate partnerships, and guide organizational growth. The ideal candidate will enjoy wearing many hats and be equally comfortable managing organizational responsibilities, pursuing grant opportunities, building relationships with community partners, and participating directly in educational programs. Key Responsibilities *Oversee organizational operations, administration, budgeting, and financial management. *Lead the development and delivery of engaging, hands-on STEAM educational programs. *Identify and pursue grants, donations, and other funding opportunities. *Develop and maintain partnerships with schools, businesses, community organizations, and donors. *Manage staff, volunteers, and organizational resources. *Collaborate with the Board of Directors on strategic planning, organizational sustainability, and future growth. *Represent Science Vortex at community events, educational programs, and partnership meetings. Qualifications: We welcome applicants with diverse professional backgrounds, particularly those with experience in nonprofit leadership, education, science centers, museums, or community-based programming. Preferred qualifications include: * Current or previous teaching certification, preferably in science, STEAM, or elementary education. *Experience developing and delivering hands-on educational programs. *Experience with nonprofit management, fundraising, grant writing, and financial oversight. *Strong organizational, communication, and community engagement skills. *Creativity, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a small, grassroots organization. *Teaching certification is preferred but not required. Candidates with equivalent experience in informal education, nonprofit leadership, or community-based programming are encouraged to apply. Compensation, Benefits & Growth Opportunities: Starting Annual Salary: $50,000–$70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Science Vortex currently operates with an annual budget of less than $200,000 and does not offer an employee benefits package. We believe in being transparent about our resources while recognizing the exciting opportunities ahead. The incoming Executive Director will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to strengthen financial sustainability, expand fundraising and grant revenue, and explore establishing employee benefits as resources allow. How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to complete our online application and submit a resume at https://forms.gle/nB6D1uV37q84rRkt9 Applications will be reviewed by the Science Vortex hiring committee, and selected candidates will be contacted regarding next steps. Science Vortex is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and welcomes applicants from diverse professional and personal backgrounds. |
