Director of Learning and Engagement
Center for Architecture
Organization Description:
The Center for Architecture, inaugurated in 2003 as the American Institute of Architect (AIA)’s first-ever cultural institution, engages local and international audiences with the value, impact, and wonder of architecture.The Center for Architecture serves as a dynamic hub for dialogue and discovery, bringing together architects, designers, students, and the public to explore how the built environment shapes our communities and daily experiences.We foster collaboration within the design community while creating accessible opportunities for the public to experience and learn about architecture. Through lectures, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, we inspire new ways of thinking about the role of design in building a more resilient and equitable future. Whether you’re an industry professional, a curious visitor, or a student exploring the field, the Center for Architecture offers a space for connection, creativity, and critical conversation—empowering everyone to engage with the transformative power of architecture.
Position Description:
The Director of Learning & Engagement leads the Center for Architecture’s educational strategy, overseeing all learning programs, and supervising the Learning & Engagement team. This role is responsible for strengthening existing programs, expanding offerings for non–K–12 audiences, and developing strategic partnerships that advance CFA’s mission.
Reports to:
The Director reports to the Executive Director and collaborates closely with CFA staff, AIA New York Chapter colleagues, Board members, funders, and key external stakeholders.
Job Requirements & Responsibilities:
– Oversee all education programs for K-12 students, teachers, youth and families, including:
– School Programs: Learning By Design: NY in-school residencies, School Visits, Professional Development for teachers
– Youth & Family Programs; Family Days, Vacation and Summer programs, and occasional Special Program offerings
– Community programs serving youth and families
– Teen Programs: Weekend workshops, Discover Architecture career exploration, Annual Architecture and Design College Fair
– Set annual and long-term programmatic goals for the Learning & Engagement Department in collaboration with the management team, organizing staff and schedules to achieve them
– Supervise and coach the Learning & Engagement team (Lead Design Educator, Design Educator, School Programs Manager, Youth Programs Manager)
– Hire, train, manage and evaluate a roster of freelance design educators with assistance from Youth and School Program Managers; expand this group as needed to meet demand and expand program audiences
– Evaluate and improve existing programs to ensure high quality
– Develop new programs, initiatives, and partnerships to expand programming to new audiences
– Implement and integrate the legacy AIANY Tours program into the CFA program offerings, developing and expanding its reach and audience engagement
– Strategize and oversee the development of architecture education resources made available to the public on our website
– Develop and manage the Learning & Engagement Department budget in conjunction with Finance and Ops Director; Partner with the finance department to reconcile related receivables from various agencies
– Collaborate with Exhibitions staff to produce bi-annual exhibition
– Collaborate with Development Department on educational grants and fundraising proposals and reports
– Collaborate with the Communications Department on year-round outreach and informational campaigns about educational programming through eblasts, enews articles, social media posts, etc
– Manage NYC Public Schools Arts Vendor Contract and relationships with NYCPS program partners
Candidate Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, design, engineering and/or arts or museum education/administration
– 10+ years’ experience and proven expertise in education program administration including school, youth and community programming
– Solid understanding of K-12 curriculum standards for New York City, NY State and nationally, with expertise on connections to architecture and design/STEAM programming
– Excellent project managements skills, able to prioritize tasks, coordinate a team effort, and meet deadlines
– Expertise leading hands-on art/design projects with youth groups in school, museum and community settings
– Professional and friendly manner
– Ability to take initiative and work both independently and collaboratively
– Excellent interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills
– Strong attention to detail, thorough and accurate
– Experience with fundraising and grant-writing
– Strong computer skills including Office 365, Adobe Suite, and CRM or data management software
Position Type:
Full-Time
Union Status:
Non-Union
FLSA Status:
Exempt
Salary or Compensation:
$110,000 – $120,000
Organization or Project Website:
https://www.centerforarchitecture.org/
Application Info:
CFA/AIA NY operates on a hybrid schedule with two remote workdays per week. This role includes occasional offsite program needs and select weekend commitments based on programming schedules.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: To apply, please send a cover letter and resume in PDF format to jobs@aiany.org. Please put the job title and your last name in the subject line of your email. No phone calls, please.