Part-Time Executive Director
Job Description – Part-Time Executive Director
Position Title: Executive Director (Part-Time)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Hours: 20 hours/week
Salary: $32,000 annually
Benefits offered: Although the position does not include health, retirement, or other employee benefits at this time, we offer a flexible schedule.
How to Apply:
Please send a resume and a brief cover letter to whitneysm@montrosechildrensmuseum.org by August 22, 2025.
Overview: The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the lead ambassador and chief strategist of the Montrose Children’s Museum, responsible for fundraising, operations, and community engagement. Based on the museum's strong financial performance in its first year of operation, the ED will elevate long-term sustainability by building strong community engagement, including expanding and retaining donors, expanding volunteer involvement, and increasing the Museum’s visibility across all demographics.
Our Mission: Foster a learning environment by igniting imagination and fueling creativity of children and adults alike. With interactive play in a hands-on learning museum, we will inspire children’s intellect, curiosity, and a life-long love of learning. We are working to create a community-supported space where businesses share their brand and purpose through learning initiatives and play, forever connecting the children and families on the Western Slope.
Our Vision:
Provide a diverse learning enriched community where children have access to resources that allow them to access their inner creative, curious, motivated self
Establish a joy and passion for lifelong learning by acting as a catalyst for engaged learning and exploration
Allow businesses to educate and motivate children and their families through brand awareness and community involvement
Promote the learning and development during a child’s pivotal and formative years of life
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising & Development (Primary Goal) (40%)
Raise $32,000+ annually via individual giving, grants, donations, and events.
Steward donor relationships, campaigns, and oversee grant writing.
Collaboratively design and build out exhibits aligned with Museum & sponsor goals.
Leadership, Staff, & Operations Management (30%)
Lead, train, and provide on-going supervision and development of part-time staff, contractors, consultants, and volunteers.
Attend professional development training approved and budgeted for by the Board of Directors.
Build internal strategic systems for smoother operations that align with the Museum’s mission, budget and long-term vision.
Ensure building and exhibit safety, functionality, and visitor engagement.
Coordinate maintenance and supply needs in collaboration with the Board.
Partner with the Board of Directors to advance the Museum’s strategic goals and governance practices.
Manage daily financial transactions including deposits, expense tracking, and petty cash handling.
Oversee budget implementation in alignment with Board-approved financial plans
Monitor cash flow, flag variances or risks.
Work with the Board Treasurer and/or accountant to prepare reports, budgets, and grant-related documentation.
Ensure spending aligns with restricted and unrestricted funds.
Maintain donor and income records in compliance with 501(c)(3) requirements
Ensure timely submission of payroll, tax documents, and nonprofit reporting. Provide transparent reporting and performance tracking.
Volunteer & Human Capital Development (15%)
Develop a comprehensive volunteer program including recruitment, training, and recognition.
Collaborate with staff and Board to leverage volunteer support in operations, events, and programs.
Build leadership pipelines within the Museum community (interns, ambassadors, committees)
Community Representation (15%)
Act as a key spokesperson for the Museum at public events and in community forums.
Strengthen the museum’s presence through strategic outreach to diverse communities, civic groups, and underrepresented populations across the Western Slope.
Develop strategic partnerships with local schools, businesses, cultural and civic groups.
Qualifications:
Demonstrated nonprofit children’s museum leadership experience
Proven fundraising or grant success on the Western Slope of Colorado
Strong organizational and communication skills
Strong public speaking and storytelling skills
Experience and enthusiasm for youth education, family engagement, and creative learning
Prior experience in staff or volunteer leadership
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required; master's or doctorate degree preferred
Work Environment & Schedule:
This is a part-time, flexible position with a mix of in-person presence at the Museum and community events, and remote work. The Executive Director will work an average of 10 hours per week on-site at the Museum and/or at Museum public-facing events. Some evenings and weekends may be required. Employment is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time, with or without cause and with or without notice. The Montrose Children’s Museum is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.