Director of Innovation

Job Level
Senior position
Job Category
Director
Sector
  • Applied Tech (STEAM / Maker / CS / Design)
Job Status
Areas of Responsibility
  • Innovation / Design

Sea Crest School seeks an innovative and experienced Director of Innovation for the 2017- 2018 school year. This is a full-time position at the school.

Position Description
The Director of Innovation (DI) oversees the Innovation Lab (iLab) and leads the school’s analysis of emerging technologies, instructional theories and innovative approaches to empower pupil learning and creativity, developing a dynamic and engaging program that includes an introduction to skills, safety and equipment in the iLab, as well as opportunities for creative problem solving and design. The DI serves as a mentor and support to faculty for the integration of project-based learning units in the iLab. S/He, in coordination with members of the Technology Committee, identifies the best tools, devices and platforms to meet the current and future needs of the school. S/he works closely with the school’s Technology Specialist and Computer Science Teacher (TSCST) and Director of Facilities (DF) to support and troubleshoot issues related to the school’s technology equipment and infrastructure. The role encompasses being an advisor, coach, project planner, industrial designer, equipment operator, safety expert, software guru and instructor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
● Fully supports the School’s mission and is a highly engaging, positive and assertive ambassador for the School.
● Prepares information and reports regarding technology and iLab, as requested by the Head of School (HOS).
● Serves as a member of the Sea Crest Administrative Team.
● Serves and/or Chairs committees as needed.
● Performs other duties and oversees special assignments as necessary or assigned by the DMS or HOS.

Innovation Lab Responsibilities
● Maintains a safe iLab environment. Establishes and enforces all iLab and Sea Crest rules and policies.
● Performs general iLab facilities maintenance and repair; performs equipment repairs and preventative maintenance.
● Manages iLab budget and inventory of materials and consumables; organizes project storage space; maintains an organized iLab space.
● Manages iLab calendar and facility use.
● Creates a fun, safe and engaging environment for pupils; is available to them for questions and assistance; assists them with their projects and in safely using iLab equipment.
● Brainstorms project design ideas and curricular planning with teachers; coaches, mentors and trains faculty and staff on safe use of iLab equipment.
● Plans and instructs two iLab integrated Middle School Exploration classes per trimester.
● Plans and instructs scheduled Lower School iLab sessions each week.
● Leads two Extended Day Program pupil Maker Club sessions per week.

Technology Systems Support Responsibilities
● Researches new platforms, devices, software and methodologies to ensure that the School stays abreast of technological and educational innovations.
● Assists the DI and TSCST with:
establishing the K-8 scope and sequence of technological skills and knowledge
general maintenance of all school technology equipment
software and hardware troubleshooting of the School’s technological equipment
diagnosing and completing simple hardware repairs
performing software updates and re-installations on computers (MacBooks, Chromebooks) for teachers
providing classroom technology support (including but not limited to Smart Boards, projectors, document cameras, iPads and Chromebooks)
supporting peripherals including printers, copiers, projectors, scanners and audio-visual equipment.

Skills and Knowledge
● Ability to diagnose and solve a wide range of operating system, hardware and application problems efficiently and effectively.
● Computer literacy including proficiency with various software and hardware systems, Internet, e-mail, Google Apps, Microsoft Office, modeling and design software.
● Ability to quickly learn new software applications.
● Strong organization skills with attention to detail. Ability to work on multiple fronts and deal with frequent deadlines.
● Highly skilled in the following areas: interpersonal/relationship building, analytical/strategic thinking, organization, time management and problem-solving.
● Strong collaboration skills to work closely with teachers and other experts in the field.
● A role model of high standards of professional behavior and leadership.
● Adept at public speaking.
● Innovative, growth mindset, self-starter who works efficiently to attain goals.
● Willing to embrace the lifestyle of working in a small independent school by being a team-player and working the amount of time that is required to model excellence in job performance.
● A strong sense of ethics and integrity.
● A strong commitment to collaborate as a member of the administrative team.

Education
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred. Relevant industry, job, or hobbyist experience desired.

License / Certification
First Aid, AED and age-appropriate CPR certification
Valid California Driver License

Experience
● Experience with computer networks, including software and hardware maintenance.
● Facilities maintenance and repair experience.
● Mentoring or teaching experience.
● Relevant industry, job or hobbyist experience.
● Experience in a not-for-profit and/or independent school environment highly preferred.

Salary and Benefits
The salary is competitive and commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

To Apply
Please submit a cover letter and résumé to:
Dr. Tekakwitha Pernambuco-Wise, Head of School
tpernambucowise@seacrestschool.org
Sea Crest School, 901 Arnold Way, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019