Executive Director

About Us

The Science Zone, based in scenic Casper, WY has a simple but powerful mission: to inspire curiosity. We serve as Wyoming’s statewide nucleus of interactive STEAM exploration for learners of all ages. With hands-on exhibits, statewide programming, and strong community partnerships, The Science Zone plays a vital role in children’s science education across the Cowboy State.

Founded originally as the Wyoming Science Adventure Center, the organization has grown from an attic in a local art museum to a 20,000 sq. ft. stand-alone facility that now welcomes over 30,000 visits annually. Beyond Casper, The Science Zone delivers outreach programs to nearly all Wyoming counties through traveling exhibits, libraries, schools, and community partners.

The Science Zone is entering an exciting new era with a $12M capital project poised to transform exhibits and facilities to highlight Wyoming’s unique science identity—wildlife, energy, and water.

Compensation & Benefits

• Exempt salary of $65,000 to $75,000 DOE
• Retirement with 3% match
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Paid professional development

Job Summary

The Executive Director provides strategic leadership and day-to-day management of The Science Zone, guiding the organization into its next chapter of growth and community impact. This role requires a dynamic leader who can advance a major capital campaign, cultivate strong partnerships, oversee financial and operational management, and inspire staff, donors, and the public.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, education, museum studies, business administration, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 5–7 years of senior leadership experience, ideally in a museum, science center, or nonprofit setting.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets of $1MM or greater.

Reports to

Board of Directors

Typical Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership to advance the mission and strategic goals of The Science Zone.
• Lead the $12M capital campaign and facility/exhibit renovation, ensuring alignment with community needs.
• Oversee daily operations of a ~$1MM annual budget and all staff and volunteers.
• Ensure strong financial health through budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.
• Cultivate donor relationships, corporate partnerships, and community collaborations.
• Oversee grant compliance and support sourcing of new revenue streams
• Guide educational programming teams to deliver high-quality field trips, workshops, outreach programs, and AmeriCorps service projects.
• Maintain The Science Zone’s reputation for innovative, meaningful guest experiences.
• Serve as the public face of the organization to donors, educators, policymakers, and community leaders.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors with transparency and accountability.
• Champion The Science Zone as a statewide hub for informal science education.
• Abide by all policies and procedures established by the Board of Directors.

Required Skills

• Visionary leadership and ability to inspire staff, donors, and the community.
• Nonprofit management expertise, including governance and operations.
• Strong relationship-building skills with donors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Fundraising and campaign leadership abilities.
• Passion for STEAM education, with commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Strategic thinking combined with practical execution skills.
• Apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills to manage multiple projects effectively.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, to collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders, and clients.
• Organize and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines while managing multiple projects.
• Collaborate effectively as part of a team, supporting shared goals and fostering positive relationships.
• Adapt to dynamic environments and identify solutions to challenges with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
• Maintain professionalism with high attention to detail, reliability, accountability, and accuracy in all work deliverables.
• Be a valid U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Physical Requirements

• To best service our customers, all employees must be able to communicate face-to-face and on the phone with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to travel up to 25% throughout Wyoming for outreach and partnership development.
• Must be able to engage in events, presentations, and community meetings, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• Normal office activities including sitting, standing, computer use, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs).

The Science Zone provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

TO APPLY: Please email resume and cover letter to [email protected]