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 DescriptionThe 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 programme 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 co-ordination 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

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

Innovation Lab Responsibilities

  1. Maintains a safe iLab environment. Establishes and enforces all iLab and Sea Crest rules and policies.
  2. Performs general iLab facilities maintenance and repair; performs equipment repairs and preventative maintenance.
  3. Manages iLab budget and inventory of materials and consumables; organises project storage space; maintains an organised iLab space.
  4. Manages iLab calendar and facility use.
  5. 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.
  6. Brainstorms project design ideas and curricular planning with teachers; coaches, mentors and trains faculty and staff on safe use of iLab equipment.
  7. Plans and instructs two iLab integrated Middle School Exploration classes per trimester.
  8. Plans and instructs scheduled Lower School iLab sessions each week.
  9. Leads two Extended Day Programme pupil Maker Club sessions per week.

Technology Systems Support Responsibilities

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

Skills and Knowledge

  1. Ability to diagnose and solve a wide range of operating system, hardware and application problems efficiently and effectively.
  2. Computer literacy including proficiency with various software and hardware systems, Internet, e-mail, Google Apps, Microsoft Office, modelling and design software.
  3. Ability to quickly learn new software applications.
  4. Strong organisation skills with attention to detail. Ability to work on multiple fronts and deal with frequent deadlines.
  5. Highly skilled in the following areas: inter-personal/relationship building, analytical/strategic thinking, organisation, time management and problem solving.
  6. Strong collaboration skills to work closely with teachers and other experts in the field.
  7. A role model of high standards of professional behaviour and leadership.
  8. Adept at public speaking.
  9. Innovative, growth mind-set, self-starter who works efficiently to attain goals.
  10. 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.
  11. A strong sense of ethics and integrity.
  12. A strong commitment to collaborate as a member of the administrative team.

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

  1. Experience with computer networks, including software and hardware maintenance.
  2. Facilities maintenance and repair experience.
  3. Mentoring or teaching experience.
  4. Relevant industry, job or hobbyist experience.
  5. 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:Michael Thompson, Director of AdvancementSea Crest School, 901 Arnold Way, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 mthompson@seacrestschool.orgAbout Sea Crest School Our institution is a K-8 independent school located in Half Moon Bay, CA. Our community of educators believes in fostering an atmosphere of excellence and joy as we prepare our pupils to succeed in school and life.Mission Sea Crest School is dedicated to providing the best in innovative education to inspire and empower our learners to engage curiosity, express creativity, act with compassion and lead with courage.