The University of Montana spectrUM Discovery Area invites applications for a Director who is committed to spectrUM's mission of igniting a passion for discovery through science The director will supervise an associate director, outreach coordinator, and a program head and will indirectly oversee all of spectrUM's 20-35 full-time, part-time, seasonal, and student employees. This position requires the incumbent to possess or develop strong working knowledge of UM administrative systems as well as UM's research and creative scholarship community. Provide strategic leadership for spectrUM, stewarding its mission, vision, and strategic planning and ensuring alignment with the University of Montana's research, education, and public engagement priorities. Lead and oversee the development and delivery of high-quality educational programming, including museum operations, camps, field trips, educator professional development, internships, exhibits, special events, and mobile programming serving rural and Tribal communities across Montana. Secure and manage federal, state, and private foundation funding to develop, expand, and sustain programs, partnerships, and initiatives; oversee grant projects and ensure effective implementation and stewardship of awarded funds. Advance public engagement with University research and STEM, collaborating with faculty and research programs to develop exhibits, educational experiences, and broader impacts activities that connect the public with science, research, and STEM role models. Lead spectrUM's development and fundraising efforts, cultivating relationships with individual, corporate, foundation, and community donors; oversee annual fundraising campaigns; and collaborate with the UM Foundation and Friends of spectrUM Discovery Area to advance organizational goals. Ensure the long-term financial and operational sustainability of spectrUM by evaluating programming, staffing, revenue-generating opportunities, and development strategies and implementing adjustments as needed. Develop and strengthen strategic partnerships with University programs, community organizations, schools, libraries, Tribal communities, peer science museums, and other regional and national organizations to expand spectrUM's reach, impact, and opportunities for collaboration. Represent and advocate for spectrUM and the importance of science education and research, communicating its mission and impact to the Montana community and broader science museum field through public engagement, professional presentations, publications, conferences, and collaborative initiatives. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Three years of leadership experience in a museum, informal education organization, or related field, including experience supervising and mentoring employees. Commitment to connecting people from all backgrounds with science. Demonstrated success with grant writing, fundraising, marketing, budget management, donor engagement, public relations, and event management. Experience as a formal or informal educator, including the ability to facilitate spectrUM's educational programs as needed. Knowledge of and interest in supporting Montana's Indian Education for All constitutional mandate. Knowledge of current issues, trends, and practices in the museum and informal science education fields. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with staff, partners, donors, and the public. Exceptional project management and organizational skills. Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning, adaptability, initiative, and continuous improvement. Preferred Qualifications Experience managing budgets of $1,000,000 or more. Experience working within a university setting and/or within other large organizations. Experience leading capital fundraising campaigns. Experience with exhibit installation and development. Experience collaborating effectively with partners in rural and tribal communities. Experience developing major grant proposals and leading grant projects. Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program. Screening of applications will begin after the closing date ; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration. To apply, please upload the following materials: Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action : Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.