Director of STEM Innovation and Discovery (Z Lab)

Job Description

Job Description

Follow your passion

Are you looking to make a BIG impact? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

Currently, we operate multiple elementary and middle schools in the Bronx and Upper Manhattan, and are opening three new elementary schools in Queens for the 2025-26 school year . We plan to grow and open 1-2 schools each year because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. Join our growing team today, and be a change agent for children.

Our Network office is located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034. Our Network team follows a hybrid work schedule : we work in-person from our office on Tuesdays and Thursdays with optional remote days on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, if your team's scope of work permits.

Deliver powerful results

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a Director of STEM Innovation and Discovery (Z Lab) with a Master's Degree and at least 7 years of experience with a proven record of leading exceptional academic outcomes in science education and demonstrated leadership at the school or network level.

Responsibilities :

• Science Vision and Strategy : Design and implement a rigorous, engaging, and inquiry-based science program that fosters deep understanding of scientific concepts, hands-on experimentation, critical thinking, and problem-solving across middle and high school grades.
• Achieve Annual Academic Goals : Lead the middle school and high school science program with a high bar of excellence to meet rigorous annual academic targets including state assessments, AP exams, and internal Zeta benchmarks
• Leadership Presence and Problem Solving : Develop strong relationships across the Zeta network and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Approach challenges with strategic thinking and a solutions-oriented mindset
• Curriculum and Assessment Management : Create and curate science curricula and aligned assessments that meet New York State Learning Standards and Zeta Learning Competencies. Ensure a coherent sequence of learning through unit and lesson plans grounded in scientific practices
• Professional Learning : Design and lead impactful professional learning experiences for principals, assistant principals, and science teachers. Build capacity across schools to deliver exceptional science instruction
• Instructional Management : Establish clear instructional expectations and support consistent, high-quality science teaching. Observe instruction and coach leaders and teachers to elevate program quality and student outcomes
• Data Analysis : Analyze academic data to identify trends and gaps. Support schools in using data to drive instructional adjustments and close achievement gaps in science learning.
• Feedback Driven : Embrace a growth mindset. Actively seek, provide, and incorporate feedback, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration
• Wear multiple hats as a part of a lean scale-up team, supporting the work of others on the team and taking on new projects and tasks as needed

Join our purpose-driven community

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta :

We are hiring for immediate openings and onboarding on a rolling basis. The salary range for this position is between $110,000 and $140,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary at or near the start of the range, depending on relevant educational leadership experience and internal equity. This position is eligible to receive an annual discretionary, merit-based performance bonus.

How does Zeta invest in you?

We offer great benefits :

We provide awesome perks :

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth :

Apply Now!

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).