Executive Director

About Free Science WorkshopThe Free Science Workshop (FSW) is a nonprofit in Ithaca, NY, and a member of the Global Alliance of Community Science Workshops. We provide free, drop-in, hands-on science programs for underserved youth in a supportive space to explore, create, and discover. Our flagship Workshop is a free-choice environment where youth direct their own learning across electronics tinkering, woodworking, biology, art-science integration, and maker projects. The Physics Bus, an eccentric science museum on wheels, brings over two dozen hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations to thousands of people each year.About the RoleThe Executive Director is the key management leader of FSW, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. This is a part-time role (20–25 hrs/week) — part fundraiser, part operations manager, part strategic partner to the board — all in service of giving our program team the organizational foundation they need to thrive.Salary: $38,000/year | Schedule: Flexible, 20–25 hrs/week | Location: Ithaca, NY (On-site)This is a fixed-term position with an initial one-year appointment and intent to renew based on funding and performance.Key ResponsibilitiesFundraising & Financial Sustainability (top priority):Oversee all fundraising activities including grant development, donor outreach, annual campaigns, fundraising events, and corporate sponsorships- Ensure fiscal integrity: prepare and administer budgets, track finances, and provide financial reporting to the Board- Cultivate relationships with individual donors and community fundersBoard Partnership:Work closely with the Board of Directors to fulfill the organization's mission- Secure board involvement in policy decisions and fundraising- Provide timely, accurate information to support informed board decision-makingOperational Support:Manage and collaborate with staff to deliver mission-aligned programs- Oversee HR, contracts, and organizational policies- Oversee marketing and communications effortsCommunity Presence:Represent FSW with funders, partners, and the broader community- Maintain relationships with aligned organizations including Cornell, Ithaca College, local schools, and community youth groups- Steward relationships with current donors and volunteersQualificationsRequired:Demonstrated nonprofit fundraising experience, including grant writing and donor communications- Transparent, high-integrity leadership- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking- Solid financial management basics: budget tracking, reporting, and working within constraints- Genuine commitment to equity, youth development, and serving underserved communities- Self-directed and organized, with ability to manage a flexible part-time schedulePreferred:Prior nonprofit management experience, including working with a Board of Directors- Experience producing grant proposals, donor appeals, or organizational newsletters- Familiarity with donor management software (e.g., Bloomerang, Little Green Light) and email marketing platforms- Experience managing educational programs in underserved communities- A history of successfully generating new revenue for under-resourced organizationsNote: A background in science is NOT required. If you're passionate about what we do, please apply!To Apply: Send resume, cover letter, and 3 references to admin@freescienceworkshop.org. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis starting in May.