Position Title: NYC Program Director
Type: Full-Time
Location: New York City (remote position) National Office located in Chicago
Reports to: Chief Educational Officer
Organization Overview:
Mikva Challenge is a national nonpartisan, nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop youth to be informed, empowered, and active citizens and community leaders who will promote a just and equitable society. Mikva Challenge has chapters in California, Washington, DC and Chicago. We engage youth in action civics, an authentic and transformative learning process built on youth voice and expertise. We are a dynamic youth empowerment agency that provides adolescents with unique civic learning opportunities and “hands-on” experiences in political campaigns, public policy advocacy, government internships, and youth activism programs. Our approaches include direct youth work, teacher support, and liaising with civic leaders and institutions. A strong belief in the potential of youth and a commitment to youth power and voice are key. Enthusiasm, energy, flexibility, and the ability to work independently as well as on a team are also important qualities for the right candidate.
Position Overview:
Mikva Challenge is seeking a NYC Program Director to help grow and support the implementation of our civic engagement initiative in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education (DOE). We are seeking a creative, experienced and motivated candidate to take on this new role.
Main Duties:
- Support the implementation of Mikva’s Project Soapbox program in up to 120 NYC schools by
- coordinating judges in classrooms and at school-wide Soapbox events,
- managing the citywide Soapbox event in November,
- coaching and supporting Instructional Leads as they support teachers at partner schools,
- creating, organizing and providing resources for classroom teachers.
- developing relationships and maintaining regular communications with teachers
- Provide targeted support to 10 pilot schools implementing Mikva’s Issues to Action curriculum by
- developing relationships and maintaining regular communications with teachers
- identifying and providing resources to teachers
- arranging for issue experts to visit classrooms
- connecting classrooms to resources in their communities
- providing technical support and coaching to teachers and Instructional Leads
- model lessons in the classroom
- Assist with other programmatic events and all other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
We are looking for an experienced educator or youth worker with an interest in youth development, youth civic engagement, and the field of civic education. A good relationship builder with youth and adults, this individual should possess a strong belief in the potential of youth, as well as a commitment to youth power and voice and respect for teachers. Strong facilitation and communication skills are critical to success. The ability to successfully partner with educators, not for profit partners, and other stakeholders is critical. Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience in building partnerships with a variety of stakeholders. This position will work closely with NYC DoE staff, they will report to Mikva’s Chief Education Officer.
Key Requirements:
- 4 plus years of experience in education, program development and management, and youth development.
- Experience in youth civic engagement, youth development and the political process preferred
- A bachelor's degree required, Masters degree or equivalent experience preferred
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Experience in event and volunteer management is preferred
- Enthusiasm, energy, creativity, flexibility, sense of humor, and the ability to work independently as well as on a team are essential qualities
- Candidate should be highly organized, motivated and have excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Experienced user of Microsoft Office products, Google and social media
Required Competencies:
Must be able to demonstrate the following competencies -
● Demonstrating and inspiring cooperation, collaboration, reliability, and professionalism
● Working effectively in changing situations and with diverse groups and issues
● Inspiring individual and organizational excellence
● Establishing and maintaining professional contacts to build, enhance, and connect networks to Mikva Challenge
Candidates should be prepared to offer three professional references. Candidates will be required to complete a background check prior to working in NYC schools.
To Apply: Please send a resume and cover letter to [email protected]
Please indicate NYC Program Director in the subject line. Review of applications will begin immediately. Please, no phone calls
Compensation and Benefits: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience
Equity Statement:
At Mikva Challenge, we celebrate difference and are committed to providing equitable opportunities, addressing the effects of power and privilege. Mikva Challenge is proud to be an equal employment opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other factor covered by federal, state, or local statutes. We want to create an empowering space to change lives!