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Job Description
Non-Profit Executive Director Children's Museum of Idaho - 2.0 Meridian, ID Job Details Full-time $85,000 - $95,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Paid time off Qualifications Interpersonal skills Expense management Operational management Writing skills Museum experience Early childhood education Building partnerships with major donors Collaboration with board members Team development Hiring Education Content development Nonprofit financial management Organizational skills Capital campaign plan development Nonprofit industry grant writing Non-profit experience Project leadership Board relations Senior leadership Full Job Description Executive Director Children's Museum of Idaho The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Children's Museum of Idaho and is responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial leadership of the organization. This role works in partnership with the Board of Directors to advance the Museum's mission of inspiring learning through play while ensuring organizational sustainability, community impact, and program excellence. The Executive Director provides vision, leads a high-performing team, cultivates community relationships, and drives fundraising and growth strategies.
Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership:
Develop and implement a clear strategic vision aligned with the Museum's mission and long-term goals Partner with the Board of Directors to establish priorities and ensure effective governance Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and community impact Position the Museum as a leading resource for early childhood learning and STEAM engagement in
Idaho Board Participation:
Serve as ex-officio, non-voting member of: Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Governance Committee and Development Committee Report on the operations of the Museum to the Board monthly Work with Executive Committee to draft meeting agendas and send out materials prior to Board meetings Work with Governance Committee to assess organizational needs and identify opportunities for board development Facilitate onboarding and orientation of new Board members together with Governance Committee Chair Perform all the duties and powers of the "president" as delineated in the
Oversee day-to-day operations including programs, exhibits, visitor experience, and facilities Lead, motivate, and develop staff while fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture Establish organizational policies, procedures, and performance metrics Ensure compliance with all legal, safety, and regulatory requirements
Financial Management:
Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board Finance Committee Ensure sound financial practices, reporting, and transparency Monitor financial performance and implement strategies to maintain sustainability Oversee audit processes and financial controls Oversee bookkeeper and contract CPA firm to assure accuracy in financial statements Review monthly financials with Finance Committee to ensure alignment with budget and monitor progress towards financial goals Analyze financial data to set long term strategic goals and address near term needs Identify and pursue new business development opportunities to expand the organization's reach and impact
Fundraising & Development:
Serve as the primary ambassador and fundraiser for the organization Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and community partners Lead fundraising initiatives including annual giving, grants, corporate partnerships, and special events Oversee Development activities working closely with the Development Director and anyone associated with fundraising for the organization Work with the Board to strengthen fundraising capacity and outcomes Collaborate with the Development Director in creating effective fundraising strategies and set annual fundraising goals. Monitor progress towards fundraising goals Develop and maintain a high level of community visibility while promoting Children's Museum of Idaho and its activities Establish and maintain relationships between the organization and other community groups to continue to raise awareness of its mission
Human Resources:
Ensure proper structure and staffing levels of the organization as well as appropriate supervision, development and support of staff Develop and carry out a staff strategic plan Maintain and update Employee Handbook Oversee and manage the hiring, discipline and firing of employees as needed
Marketing:
Oversee marketing activities, review promotional materials and communications before dissemination Plan and execute special events with
Development Director Community Engagement & Advocacy:
Represent the Museum in the community, building partnerships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and civic organizations Advocate for the importance of early childhood education, play-based learning, and accessible family programming Strengthen the Museum's visibility and reputation across the region
Program & Exhibit Oversight:
Ensure the development and delivery of high-quality, engaging exhibits and programs Support innovation in interactive learning experiences Maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all visitors
Qualifications Required:
5-10+ years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, museums, education, or a related field Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor relationship management Strong financial management and operational leadership skills Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building abilities Preferred Experience in a children's museum, science center, or informal education environment Knowledge of early childhood education principles and play-based learning Grant writing and capital campaign experience Familiarity with the Idaho nonprofit or education landscape
Key Competencies:
Visionary and strategic thinker Mission-driven and community-focused Collaborative and team-oriented leader Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on growth and innovation Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience $85,000-$95,000 annually, health stipend and PTO. Opportunity to make a lasting impact on children and families in Idaho. About the Children's Museum of Idaho The Children's Museum of Idaho, located at 790 S Progress Ave., Meridian, Idaho, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and provides dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. Through interactive exhibits and programs, the Museum serves families, schools, and communities across the region. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications, passion for the mission and two professional references. Email to or deliver to Pat Baker, 790 S Progress Ave., Meridian, ID 83642
