Description

Executive Director 

Location: Coronado, CA (Hybrid; occasional evening/weekend events required)
Position Type: Part-Time (approximately 30 hours/week)
Compensation: $60,000–$75,000 annually, based on experience and hours; performance bonus eligible (up to 15% of base)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Application Deadline: Friday, November 15, 2026 at 5pm
Expected Start Date: January 4, 2027

About Emerald Keepers

Emerald Keepers is a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability through education, action, and leadership. Based in Coronado, CA, we partner with residents, students, local businesses, and government agencies to implement eco-conscious practices and foster a culture of environmental stewardship. From school-based programs and community cleanups to policy advocacy and scientific monitoring, our work empowers people of all ages to become proactive protectors of our planet.

Position Summary

The Executive Director (ED) is the senior leader of Emerald Keepers, responsible for executing the organization’s mission, managing day-to-day operations, leading fundraising efforts, and representing the organization publicly. This role requires a strategic thinker, skilled communicator, and passionate advocate for sustainability. As a part-time position with flexible hours, the ED must be highly self-directed and able to balance planning with hands-on execution. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to lead a respected grassroots environmental organization in a thriving coastal community.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the execution of strategic and annual plans in collaboration with the Board
• Ensure programming aligns with organizational values and delivers measurable impact
• Identify emerging environmental issues and opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission

Fundraising and Financial Management

• Research and implement fundraising options, including grants, individual giving, and events; oversee grant compliance and reporting; and establish an annual fundraising plan
• Work with bookkeeper and treasurer to prepare budgets and monthly financial reports
• Ensure compliance with IRS, state, and local nonprofit regulations

Program Oversight and Innovation

• Direct existing programs such as:
  • Coronado High School Intern Program – Develop future environmental leaders through mentoring and hands-on projects with direct community impact
  • Student Gardens and Coronado Crops Program – Grow and harvest fresh produce to give to the Imperial Beach Food Pantry
  • Community Environmental Education – Organize quarterly lectures and workshops on a variety of educational topics and oversee articles for local news outlets
  • Coronado Flower Show and Homefront Judging - Recruit and organize volunteers for judging and oversee booth activity
  • Air and Water Quality Monitoring (in partnership with local agencies)
  • Monthly Beach Cleanups hosted by Emerald Keepers and in collaboration with local organizations
• Develop new initiatives that engage the community and strengthen environmental awareness
• Collect and analyze program data for reporting and evaluation

Public Relations & Community Outreach

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for Emerald Keepers in media, at public meetings, and community events
• Build and maintain strong relationships with city officials, schools, environmental coalitions, and civic groups, attending key monthly meetings

Lead communications strategy, including newsletters, website content, social media, and press releases

Organizational Management

• Supervise and coordinate volunteers, interns, and contractors
• Maintain office systems, technology platforms (e.g., donor CRM), and databases
• Oversee risk management, including insurance and operational policies

Board Development & Support

• Work closely with the Board Chair and committees to ensure effective governance
• Prepare board meeting agendas, reports, and strategic recommendations
• Ensure transparent communication and alignment between staff and board

Requirements

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in nonprofit management, environmental advocacy, or related fields
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor cultivation
• Experience managing small teams, volunteers, or cross-functional projects
• Knowledge of environmental policy, education, or urban sustainability issues preferred
• Strong public speaking and written communication skills
• High emotional intelligence and a collaborative, community-minded approach
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, basic accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks), and donor CRM software
• A background and/or understanding of Coronado and the local philanthropic landscape strongly preferred

Working Conditions

• Flexible schedule; mix of remote and in-person work in Coronado and greater San Diego area
• Must be available for occasional evening and weekend meetings or events
• Position requires light physical activity (e.g., event setup, garden programs)

Compensation & Bonus Plan

• Base Salary: $60,000–$75,000 depending on qualifications and time commitment
• Performance Bonus: Up to 15% of base salary, based on annual goals in fundraising, program outcomes, and organizational growth

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and two references to info@emeraldkeepers.org with the subject line: Executive Director Application. 

Application Deadline is Friday, November 15, 2026