Program Director - Upper Midwest

UndauntedK12; United States; Remote; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A national nonprofit seeks a Program Director to lead strategies for decarbonizing schools in the Upper Midwest. The role involves advocacy, partnerships, and program management to support climate action in K-12 education. Ideal candidates are collaborative leaders with experience in policy and education.

Benefits

Health coverage

Life insurance

Disability

401(k)

Qualifications

• At least 7 years working with stakeholders on education or climate change strategies.
• 3+ years leading a team preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop collaborative relationships for K-12 climate action.
• Lead policy advocacy, programs, & engagement.
• Build capacity and movement infrastructure.

Skills

Effective strategist

Strong communicator

Problem solver

Team builder

Entrepreneurial spirit

Education

College degree or equivalent experience

Job description

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About UndauntedK12

UndauntedK12 is a national nonprofit working to support America's K-12 public schools in making an equitable transition to zero carbon emissions while preparing our youth to build a sustainable future in a rapidly changing climate. We aim to activate the potential of the K-12 public school sector to respond to climate change, addressing long-standing inequities, stimulating the economy, and positioning America as a leader in clean energy transition. Our vision is a future where every dollar spent on K-12 infrastructure promotes an equitable, zero-carbon future, where education leaders recognize climate threats, and where students are prepared to build a sustainable future.

Role Overview

UndauntedK12 seeks a Program Director to develop and lead strategies for creating healthy, resilient, decarbonized schools in the Upper Midwest. The Director will lead activities, partnerships, advocacy, programs, operations, and fundraising support in the region. They will serve as the organization's representative in state and local engagements and media, understanding the landscape, building alliances, influencing policy, and supporting leaders with tools and resources for climate action.

The ideal candidate is entrepreneurial, collaborative, experienced in policymaking, advocacy, or program administration at the state level, with school district or federal experience being beneficial. They should have demonstrated ability to work with diverse networks to effect change.

Responsibilities

1. Develop collaborative relationships for K-12 climate action (30%)
   • Build relationships with state officials, agencies, and partners across sectors.
   • Establish partnerships with leaders in youth, education, environmental justice, health, climate, civil rights, labor, and private sectors.
   • Coordinate with team to set policy and program priorities in the Upper Midwest.
2. Lead policy advocacy, programs, & engagement (40%)
   • Develop campaign strategies and advocacy plans.
   • Manage team and partners on initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader strategy.
   • Coordinate responses to engagement requests from schools and agencies.
   • Represent UndauntedK12 publicly, including media, testimony, op-eds, and reports.
   • Act as an ambassador at conferences and events to promote the organization's work.
   • Maintain relevant data to support regional activities.
3. Build capacity and movement infrastructure (20%)
   • Lead initiatives to promote collaboration, develop leaders, and advance policy goals.
   • Coordinate campaigns including voices of students and education leaders.
   • Organize convenings to promote objectives.
   • Develop resources for leaders to promote decarbonization and resilience, focusing on climate justice and funding.
4. Contribute to a healthy organization (10%)
   • Prepare updates, communications, and content for supporters and networks.
   • Evolve knowledge on regional strategies and implementation.
   • Lead and contribute to strategic projects and initiatives.
   • Manage staff and contracted partners as applicable.

Requirements

• Effective strategist with focus and prioritization skills.
• Influencer capable of engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Strong communicator to motivate support.
• Problem solver with data analysis skills.
• Self-reflective learner with humility and inclusion.
• Organized project leader managing multiple priorities.
• Team builder with respect and care for others.
• Entrepreneurial spirit, adaptable to ambiguity.
• Passion for UndauntedK12's mission and values.

Education and Experience

• College degree or equivalent experience.
• At least 7 years working with stakeholders on education or climate change strategies.
• 3+ years leading a team preferred.
• Subject matter expertise in climate change, decarbonization, environmental justice, or public health.

Benefits

• Salary: $100,000 - $140,000, with comprehensive benefits including health coverage, life insurance, disability, and 401(k).
• Location: Fully remote; ideally based in the Upper Midwest (Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin). Travel 2-3 times/month within region.
• Reporting to CEO.
• Physical demands: Sitting, talking, listening up to 8 hours/day.

Diversity Statement

We value diverse backgrounds and experiences and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, regardless of protected characteristics.

Application Guidance

Priority given to applications received by March 14, 2025. We will review and interview on a rolling basis. We may not respond to all applicants. Thank you for your interest.