Position: Executive Director
Location: Coronado, CA (Remote, with in-person responsibilities at local events; occasional evening/weekend events required)
Position Type: Part time (approximately 25–30 hours/week)
Compensation: based on experience and hours; performance bonus eligible
Reports To: Board of Directors
About Emerald Keepers
Emerald Keepers is a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability through education, action, and leadership. Based in and focused on 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 a remote position with no dedicated office space provided. However, candidates must reside in the San Diego area and be available for in-person meetings, events, or site visits as needed. The Executive Director will work closely with a hands-on, working Board of Directors that is actively involved in the organization’s operations, strategy, and community outreach. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual seeking to lead a respected grassroots environmental organization in a thriving coastal community.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Lead the development and execution of strategic and annual plans in collaboration with the Board
Identify emerging environmental issues and opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission
Ensure programming aligns with organizational values and delivers measurable impact
Fundraising & Financial Management
Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan, including grants, individual giving, and events
Identify, write and manage grants from public and private funders; oversee grant compliance and reporting
Maintain accurate financial records; work with the bookkeeper and the Board treasurer to prepare budgets and monthly financial reports
Ensure compliance with IRS, state, and local nonprofit regulations
Program Oversight & Innovation
Direct existing programs such as:
Coronado High School Intern Program (CHS students learn about sustainability and environment issues and work on passion projects. An Intern Coordinator will work closely with the ED on this program.)
CHS Garden and Crops Program (grows and donates fresh produce to the Imperial Beach Food Bank)
Ongoing Community Educational Outreach Programs (Includes working in conjunction with Board Communications Committee and consulting designer to produce monthly newsletters and educational articles in local news outlets)
Air and Water Quality Monitoring (in partnership with local agencies)
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
Lead communications strategy, including newsletters, website content, social media, and press releases
Organizational Management
Supervise and coordinate volunteers, interns, part-time staff, and consultants
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
Assist in board recruitment, orientation, and training
Ensure transparent communication and alignment between staff and board
Qualifications
3+ 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
Familiarity with Google Workspace and donor CRM software
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, including monthly board meetings. Additional hours during March and April for Earth Month
Position requires light physical activity (e.g., event setup, garden programs)
Employment Status
This position is an at-will position, which means that either the employee or the organization may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to info@emeraldkeepers.org with the subject line: Executive Director Application. Position open until filled. Local candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
