Shadow the Scientists Programs Manager

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INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

Application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring unit for consideration. Materials submitted after the IRD will ONLY be forwarded at the request of the hiring unit. To ensure your application is routed for consideration, submit your materials before 11:59 p.m. on the IRD. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.

The IRD for this job is: 10-28-2024

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The mission of UCSC's CrEST program (CReating Equity in STeam) is to provide life-changing experiential learning programs that inspire impactful changes in our world, build self-confidence, and foster equity. Current CrEST programs include Shadow the Scientists (StS), Python and Research (PyaR), and R and Research in Computational Biology (ReComBio).

Shadow the Scientists (StS) program was created to connect students and the public to scientists who are actively engaged in authentic scientific experiments, such as astronomy-observing activities which are conducted on world-class telescopes by professional astronomers. StS also offers observing sessions in electron microscopy, marine biology, plant biology, and intends to expand offerings into other fields.

The StS mission of connecting communities with scientists in the spirit of wonder and exploration is accomplished through sessions that share a glimpse into the world of hands-on science, and expose participants to research, potentially for the very first time. Access and exposure are key points of entry in every researcher's pathway. StS removes barriers to access and provides exposure, bringing participants onto their path.

The CrEST program targets high school learners and is only one component of the diverse portfolio of innovative offerings from the Silicon Valley Extension of UCSC. The Silicon Valley Extension provides training to working professionals that reflects the academic rigor of the University of California and the hands-on, roll-up-your-shirtsleeves practicality of Silicon Valley culture.

More information about StS can be found at https://shadow.ucsc.edu and https://crest.ucsc.edu

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Associate Director for CrEST, the Shadow the Scientists Programs Manager (StS PM) oversees all aspects of the Shadow the Scientists, the Python and Research (PyaR), and the R and Research in Computational Biology (ReComBio) programs.

In this leadership position, the StS PM is responsible for all program oversight and logistics, including building and maintaining strategic partnerships, communications, and personnel. This position works in support of and collaboration with Subject Matter Experts, the StS evaluator, program assistant (PA), and future direct reports. The StS PM serves as the point person for all external program stakeholders.

Attendance at nighttime observing sessions and other Shadow the Scientists sessions is not required. This is a 100% remote position, but the incumbent must be physically located in the United States.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $83,000 - $93,000/year. Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Benefits Level Eligibility: Full benefits

Schedule Information:

• Full-time, Fixed
• Percentage of Time: 100%, 40 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Mon-Fri
• Shift Includes: Day

Employee Classification: Career appointment

Job End Date: None

Work Location: Remote

Union Representation: Non-Represented

Job Code Classification: 004536 (K TO 14 ACAD PREP SPEC 4)

Travel: Up to 25% of the time

JOB DUTIES

40% - Programs Oversight

• Provides full oversight and management of two CrEST programs: Shadow the Scientists (StS) and Python and Research (PyaR)/R and Research in Computational Biology (ReComBio).
• Supports and directs deliverables for the Program Assistant (PA) and other direct reports, both staff and student workers; proactively delegates session support work as needed.
• Closely collaborates with CrEST Faculty Director, CrEST Associate Director (AD), Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), program hosts, program evaluator, and other CrEST colleagues.
• Monitors program finances in collaboration with CrEST Associate Director; issues payments to Subject Matter Experts; runs budget reports and ensures spending occurs in accordance with grant policies.
• Participates in grant writing and annual reporting.
• With support from the CrEST Associate Director, develops fundraising calendar and strategies for Shadow the Scientists (StS), Python and Research (PyaR), and ReComBio programs.
• Liaises with program evaluator to provide data, metrics, and support; adapts program goals with evaluation results; collaborates on program priorities; and, identifies gaps in service.
• Maintains programmatic data; updates data intake forms based on data collection needs of evaluator.
• Leads strategic planning process for programs; directs growth of StS and PyaR/ReComBio in collaboration with CrEST leadership.
• Attends program sessions to support hosts and engages with participants as needed; serves as moderator of StS, PyaR, and ReComBio sessions, or delegates moderator duties when necessary; plans and attends site visits.
• Manages program schedules, content, training, recruitment, collaborator relationships, and incentive strategies for host retention.

25% - Strategic Partnerships

• Develops new partnerships and networks with local K-12 schools and informal educators (i.e. homeschool orgs, museums), and community organizations as a means of program outreach and recruitment.
• Establishes and maintains intersegmental partnerships (K-12, higher education, legislative) and collaborations that promote student academic achievement, equity, and access.
• Enhances public awareness and engages stakeholders (donors, legislators, educators, students, parents, communities, businesses, etc.) around program and organizational goals, needs, and issues.
• Liaises with partners to develop intentional outreach strategies with BIPOC youth and research enthusiasts.
• Represents StS, PyaR, ReComBio, and the other programs and initiatives under the CrEST umbrella in meetings and public engagements with program partners, UC, the community, mentors, and other relevant audiences.
• Serves on external committees, workgroups, and coordinating bodies to raise visibility of StS, PyaR, and other CrEST programs; attends conferences and outreach engagements as a means of program outreach and recruitment; represents CrEST at donor salons.
• Creates tools and other deliverables specifically for K-12 educators; provides other relevant resources and support.
• Participates in nurturing relationships with new and existing networks of donors engaged in the Pacific Islander and Hawaiian Educational Fund for CrEST.

25% - Partnership Support

• Coordinates outreach and communicates with current and new StS/PyaR/ReComBio outreach partners, hosts, and Subject Matter Experts.
• Manages stakeholder relationships with a focus on participant retention.
• Coordinates observatory and institutional agreements.
• Works with program hosts and outreach partners to schedule routine sessions; for StS, does so in accordance with telescope schedules once announced for the A (Spring) and B (Fall) seasons.
• Systematizes relationships for repeat service to StS, PyaR and ReComBio outreach partners.
• Identifies the needs of new partners and develops systems to meet those needs, such as new scheduling paradigms as scientists from new fields of study become StS hosts.
• Responds to the special needs of outreach partners and participants, such as timing, attendance, capacity, and accommodation needs for the sessions.

10% - Communications

• Regarding program sessions, oversees communication efforts and feedback tools; target audiences include SMEs, session hosts, and registrants.
• Leads direct marketing strategy for Shadow the Scientists (StS) and Python and Research (PyaR) programs, including creation and dissemination of promotional materials and program visual stories.
• Maintains Subject Matter Expert guide and shares resources. Creates and refines user friendly guides for StS hosts.
• Works across campus teams to enhance marketing materials; directs post-promotion activities.
• Directs maintenance of websites and social media.
• Manages ClimbHI inquiry system for outreach events throughout Hawaii.
• Prepares and delivers talks and presentations at conferences and community events.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.
• Work experience involving STEAM fields, K-12, and higher education.
• Demonstrated fluency and professionalism on technology platforms used for program communications: Gmail or Email clients such as MailChimp; Zoom; Google Suite; Website editing; YouTube; and Social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
• Strong oral communication skills, including group communication and presentation skills.
• Strong project coordination skills.
• Demonstrated ability working under minimum supervision, researching and troubleshooting issues independently, accessing institutional resources available, and using discretion around sensitive topics.
• Ability to maintain good communication, camaraderie, proactiveness, and diplomacy within a distributed team environment.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with diverse individuals and institutions.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.
• Experience running youth programs at UC Santa Cruz in coordination with campus support units.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of K-14 educational equity programs and issues.
• Demonstrated ability with increasing access to research opportunities, including increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion within an academic setting.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation.
• Ability to conduct outdoor site visits, including use of required personal protective equipment, as required to conduct investigations, inspections, or view work in place.
• This is a fully remote position, and the selected candidate must be able to work successfully from a home/remote office and be able to fulfill the requirements of the UCSC telecommuting agreement.
• Ability to work a variable schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• Ability to travel to multiple work locations on and off campus.
• Ability to travel nationally.
• Ability to maintain appearance and conduct suitable for working in a professional setting.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here.

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. UC Santa Cruz is committed to excellence through diversity and strives to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.

For the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination