Associate Director of Think Academy Programs (TAP)

Job Description 

Summary

The Associate Director of Think Academy Programs (TAP) at Albuquerque Academy, a national leader in independent education, supports the planning, coordination, and daily operations of the Academy’s year-round youth public enrichment offerings. This 12-month, exempt position (1.0 FTE) works closely with the Director of Think Academy Programs to help implement and manage TAP programming, which serves up to 1,500 students in grades pre-K through high school. Reporting directly to the Director of Think Academy Programs, the associate director collaborates with both the year-round TAP administrative team and seasonal administrative team to plan, promote, implement, evaluate, and modify programs.

This role is instrumental in coordinating program logistics, managing enrollment operations, supporting personnel, and ensuring the successful day-to-day functioning of TAP initiatives. It includes year-round enrichment and sports programming for students from across Albuquerque. The associate director plays a key role in maintaining operational efficiency and delivering high-quality experiences for participating students and families while supporting the Academy’s mission of excellence, opportunity, caring, and inclusion. This position also helps cultivate strong relationships with internal school departments and external community partners to support program success.

Operating from a 312-acre campus, the associate director assists in managing programs that serve students from across Albuquerque and act as a pipeline for future Chargers while maintaining the school's commitment to outreach, accessibility, and stewardship of resources. All employees at Albuquerque Academy approach their work in accordance with the values in our mission and in a spirit of kindness, professionalism, generosity, and civility to all members of the community. Our community norms, listed below, underlie our school culture, and all community members are expected to commit themselves fully to them.

• Value and respect the diverse contributions of each person in the community.
• Assume positive intent and inquire if you are left with questions or concerns.
• Engage in face-to-face direct conversations; be clear, open, and honest in your conversations.
• Be present and participate.

Albuquerque Academy seeks to maintain a diverse and energetic staff to work on campus. We encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent school communities. The position is open until filled, and applicants are asked to submit a letter of interest and resume along with their online application. Please explain why Albuquerque Academy is the right fit for you and detail your passion for the position.

Essential Functions

Strategic Vision and Program Development

• Supports the Director in implementing TAP goals that align with the Academy’s mission and strategic plan.
• Assists with researching market trends and best practices in auxiliary programming and youth enrichment.
• Contributes ideas for enhancements to existing offerings and development of new enrichment programs, camps, and initiatives.
• Assists with gathering and analyzing enrollment and program data to inform program improvements and planning.
• Supports outreach initiatives such as referral programs, partnerships, and community engagement opportunities that promote TAP programming.
• Represents TAP in meetings or professional networks as assigned by the Director.

Operational and Financial Oversight

• Assists the Director in overseeing the day-to-day operations of all TAP programming.
• Coordinates with the Director to support the TAP year-round administrative team, ensuring the organization and dissemination of schedules, class lists, attendance records, and facilities assignments.
• Oversees program logistics including classroom coordination, facilities scheduling, equipment needs, and operational planning.
• Supports budgeting and financial tracking in collaboration with the business office, including purchasing and monitoring program expenses.
• Monitors enrollment levels and program capacity and provides regular updates to the Director.
• Assists with managing program timelines to ensure operational deadlines are met.

Personnel and Instructional Leadership

• Assists with recruiting, onboarding, and supporting faculty, seasonal staff, and student employees.
• Coordinates communication and scheduling for instructors and program staff.
• Supports faculty in implementing course plans and maintaining program standards.
• Helps coordinate seasonal administrative teams and assists with staff training and orientation.
• Assists in maintaining employee handbooks, training materials, and evaluation resources for TAP staff.
• Supports the Director in addressing personnel concerns and operational issues involving instructors or staff.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

• Provides exceptional customer service to families and participants.
• Responds to parent inquiries and assists in resolving program-related concerns.
• Supports the Director in addressing disciplinary, behavioral, and safety matters within TAP programs.
• Collaborates with internal departments such as admissions, athletics, facilities, and diversity, culture, and belonging to support TAP initiatives.
• Assists with coordinating outreach initiatives such as the Vincent Cordova Summer Scholars Program.
• Supports the planning and execution of TAP events including open houses, orientation events, and family engagement opportunities.

Other Responsibilities

• Participates in school-related events (e.g., fall admission open house) and attends school-wide meetings as needed.
• Supports the school and its mission while maintaining a high degree of professionalism.
• Works TAP events and other after-hours meetings and events as requested by the Director of Think Academy Programs or the Director of External Relations.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Think Academy Programs and the Director of External Relations.
• Foster and maintain a culture of mutual respect, equitable practice, and joy. 
• Demonstrate cultural competence and communicate and collaborate effectively across differences.

NOTE: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time.

Job Qualifications

Education and Experience

• A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in a business-, recreation-, or education-related field; an advanced degree is preferred.
• 3–7 years of related experience in youth programming, summer camps, auxiliary programs, or educational administration.
• Experience coordinating programs, managing logistics, or supporting large-scale events preferred.
• Experience supervising staff or coordinating teams in a program environment is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent organizational and administrative skills with strong attention to detail.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with students, families, faculty, and staff.
• High degree of professionalism, flexibility, emotional intelligence, and reliability.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced program environment.
• Working knowledge of budgeting processes, data tracking, and registration systems preferred.
• Proficiency with PC/Mac computers, including Microsoft Office and Google applications.

Special Requirements

• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Working Environment and Physical Demands

• Setting: Most work is performed in an indoor office setting on campus, with additional outdoor work during program operations and events.
• Hours: Generally, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with additional evening and weekend hours during peak programming periods.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Transporting supplies for program/event set-up and take-down.
• Walking and climbing stairs to navigate the campus.
• Driving a school golf cart or school vehicle around campus.
• Sitting at a desk, working on a computer, and responding to phone calls.

EEO/ADA Compliance

Albuquerque Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Academy will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.