Director of Cadet Programs

Civil Air Patrol • Headquarters/Remote, US,

16h • $133,000 - $153,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Join a mission-driven organization that supports Civil Air Patrol’s Young Leaders! We’re seeking a Director to lead, shape, and continuously improve the Civil Air Patrol’s nationally scoped Cadet Program. The Director, in collaboration with other offices of primary responsibility within Civil Air Patrol, will ensure cadets experience safe, high-quality youth development that supports developing aerospace leaders and future leaders. Salary Range: $133,000 - $153,000 (annually), based on experience and qualifications.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in youth development, education, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership position with demonstrated success in strategic planning, program oversight, and team leadership.
• Proven senior leadership experience in youth development, education, military, or nonprofit sectors.
• Strong strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight skills.
• Deep understanding of youth development, risk management, compliance, and youth protection standards.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Experience leading diverse teams and working with volunteers in a mission-driven environment.
• Valid driver’s license; ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Nice To Haves

• Hybrid/remote work eligibility

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans aligned with CAP’s mission.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure cadet programs are innovative, scalable, and sustainable.
• Oversee a diverse portfolio of cadet activities that promotes and expands engagement in aerospace, character, fitness, and leadership development.
• Ensure disciplined, compliant management of the cadet program budgets including appropriated and corporate funds.
• Support fundraising, grant execution, and sponsorships in partnership with Development and Government Relations.
• Ensure adequate resourcing and requirements for cadet protection and risk mitigation in out-of-school-time and in-school environments.
• Provide clear roles, expectations, and professional development to ensure team alignment and accountability.
• Serve as liaison to external stakeholders in youth development, military education, nonprofits, and government agencies.
• Represent Cadet Programs through conferences, webinars, publications, and strategic briefings.
• Review and approve training materials and both non-directive and directive guidance.
• Conduct site visits to assess program quality and leadership performance.
• Supervises a team of paid and volunteer staff members responsible for providing Cadet Programs’ capabilities to support CAP’s goals in alignment with the mission, vision, and core values.
• Provides leadership and coaching to teams; empowers staff, manages performance, activities, and priorities while fostering an environment of collaboration, transparency, alignment, and accountability.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and dependent care.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick and personal leave, and holidays.
• Professional Development: Training programs and certification support.
• Life Insurance: Employer-paid coverage.
• Supplemental Insurance: Disability, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity.
• Flexible Work Options: Hybrid/remote work eligibility and family-friendly policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed