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CASW seeks new executive director

CASW seeks an individual with strong administrative and fundraising skills to run an organization dedicated to advancing science journalism. This multifaceted job involves a wide range of duties including program development, staff oversight, and opportunities to create and support innovative training programs for science journalists. Applicants may apply for this US-based position at either an 80 percent or full time level. This is a fully remote job.

CASW is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the quantity and quality of science news reaching the public. We do that through fellowships, awards, and programs, including the annual ScienceWriters conference, which we co-organize with the National Association of Science Writers (NASW). We have evolved a lot during our 64-year history and seek an executive who will help us continue to innovate.

The executive director position requires a candidate who enjoys providing leadership, building community, and creating and fundraising for new projects. That person is responsible for program development and coordination, financial management, strategic planning, hiring and managing staff and contractors,  and managing professional services (auditors, fund managers, consultants, technical services, bookkeepers, developers, etc.). The executive director identifies partner organizations (usually universities) and negotiates with them to host the annual ScienceWriters meeting. The executive director coordinates closely with NASW to organize the conference.

The current executive director, Ros Reid, works an 80 percent schedule. She supervises a half-time administrator/communications manager and manages three independent contractors: a New Horizons program director, who is responsible for creating science-focused sessions at the ScienceWriters meeting, and a managing editor and community manager for the CASW Connector and CASW Showcase websites. An applicant interested in a full-time position as executive director would assume the duties of the New Horizons program director.

The executive director reports to the CASW board, which sets the organization’s overall direction and policies. An executive committee meets monthly with the executive director.

Important attributes for applicants include fundraising acumen, demonstrated management skills, and deep connections to the science-writing community. CASW, an equal opportunity nonprofit employer, values diversity and equity and is committed to maintaining an inclusive and collegial work environment. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristics.

The full job description and other documentation can be found in this Google Drive folder.

Salary range is $85,000 to $130,000, depending, in part, on time commitment and experience. 

CASW will start reviewing applications May 24. Start date will be in the fall, on a date to be determined during discussions with applicants. If you’d like to apply, please provide a letter of interest and a resume through this link.