COGNITION of Davie County, Inc. (Cognition) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Mocksville, NC.  COGNITION is an interactive space for children, families, and the community to acquire knowledge through adventurous play, investigative learning, and creative growth. COGNITION is currently searching for energetic and engaging employees with the ability and interest to work part-time within various departments including Visitor Experience, Exhibit Space, Makerspace, Educational Programs, and Community Outreach efforts.

Executive Director – Children’s Museum & Makerspace

Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead our children’s museum & makerspace dedicated to promoting exploration, education, and innovation in Davie County and surrounding communities. We accomplish this by creating opportunities for people of all ages to play, learn, and grow with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. As the Executive Director, you will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fundraising efforts to ensure the museum’s continued success in fulfilling its mission of inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Responsibilities:

  1. Strategic Leadership:
    • Develop and implement long-term strategic plans in alignment with the museum’s mission and vision.
    • Identify emerging trends and opportunities in STEAM education and museum management to enhance the museum’s impact and relevance.
    • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
  2. Operational Management:
    • Oversee day-to-day operations, including exhibits, makerspace, programs, visitor services, and facilities maintenance, to ensure a high-quality visitor experience.
    • Manage budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation to maintain fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
    • Implement best practices in museum management, including collections management & reporting, safety protocols, and accessibility standards.
  3. Community Engagement and Partnerships:
    • Cultivate relationships with community stakeholders, including educators, parents, government officials, and corporate partners, to enhance the museum’s visibility and support.
    • Collaborate with schools, libraries, and other educational institutions and museums to develop enriching STEAM programs and outreach initiatives.
    • Represent the museum at public events, conferences, and media engagements to promote its mission and impact.
  4. Fundraising and Development:
    • Lead fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and special events, to secure financial support for museum operations, programs, and capital projects.
    • Develop and maintain strong relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors to diversify revenue streams and achieve fundraising goals.
    • Develop and implement strategies to engage members, patrons, and volunteers in supporting the museum’s mission through donations, memberships, and volunteerism.
  5. Board Relations and Governance:
    • Work closely with the Board of Directors to provide regular updates on museum activities, financial performance, and strategic initiatives.
    • Collaborate with the Board to recruit and retain diverse, qualified board members who will provide expertise and support in areas such as fundraising, marketing, and education.
    • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as adherence to the museum’s policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

  • Davie County resident preferred.
  • Bachelor’s degree in business management, museum studies, nonprofit management, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
  • Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant writing, and donor cultivation, with a track record of achieving fundraising goals and building sustainable revenue streams.
  • Proven leadership experience in a museum, business, or nonprofit organization, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior management role.
  • Strong understanding of STEAM education principles and practices, with a passion for inspiring curiosity and creativity in all ages.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences, including children, parents, educators, donors, and community leaders.
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative initiatives to advance the museum’s mission and impact.
  • Strong organizational and financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, board members, and external stakeholders to achieve common goals and objectives.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience
  • Benefits package including health insurance stipend and paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities to support career growth and advancement
  • The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of community members through STEAM education and exploration.

Interested applicants should email resume and cover letter to kimc@yadtel.net

 

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STEAM Support Staff  (Part-time)

STEAM Support Staff are needed to:.

  • Greet and check-in visitors; staff front desk when needed.
  • Answer and direct phone calls and inquiries.
  • Assist with delivery of programs, and facilitation of birthday parties, event rentals, school field trips, etc.
  • Engage with varied audiences (families, schools, general public, seniors) one-on-one to bring exhibits and Makerspace to life.
  • Assist with group programs including activity stations, classes, and summer camps.
  • General support and assisting with tasks and cleaning protocol as needed.

Position Details   

Position reports to the Site Coordinator. Work schedule can be flexible but will require availability on several Saturdays per month and occasional evenings. 

Instructors (Part-time)

Instructors are needed to:

  • Design and teach STEAM classes and activities for ages ranging from preschool to elementary, middle, high school and adults.
  • Teachers, artists, tradesmen and stay-at-home moms are needed to offer a wide variety of hands-on activities.