Memorial Affairs and Next of Kin Services Manager

Air Force Academy Foundation • USAF Academy, CO

7h • $62,000 - $66,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Memorial Affairs & Next of Kin (NOK) Services Manager is a civilian position with the United States Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting the Air Force Academy. The role is part of the Alumni Relations Division and reports to the Director of Heritage. It leads programs for families of deceased graduates and members, supporting dignified memorial recognition, compassionate communication with next of kin, and coordination of memorial programs and services across internal teams, Academy partners, and external stakeholders. Military service or graduation from the Air Force Academy is not required.

The position manages family support and memorial activities while ensuring they align with the traditions and mission of the Department of the Air Force and the Air Force Academy. It maintains NOK service protocols and program standards, supports memorial events and publications, and oversees the program budget. The role may represent the Association & Foundation at funerals, memorial ceremonies, and official observances, and may mentor or supervise staff supporting these programs.

Employees work in the office Monday through Thursday and may work remotely on Fridays. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume. The position remains open until filled.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience desired.
• Ability to pass a DBIDS background check required to maintain access to the Association & Foundation’s principal offices on the Academy.
• Valid driver’s license and related insurance required.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Adobe Suite, Microsoft Office, and CRM or form-management systems.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

• Supervisory experience and strong program management skills.
• Two to five years of experience in nonprofit, military-affiliated, higher education, events, communications, or related fields.
• Experience working with families, volunteers, or external stakeholders.
• Experience with Zoho or a similar CRM/form-management system.
• Military service, especially in the U.S. Air Force, will be given strong consideration.

Responsibilities

• Uphold and promote the ethical standards and core values of the Air Force Academy and the Association & Foundation.
• Learn how the Association & Foundation interacts with the Academy and other Academy-related nonprofit organizations.
• Lead memorial and survivor-related programs and serve as the primary liaison with Association & Foundation staff, Mortuary Affairs, USAFA leadership and staff, Academy Ladies and Gentlemen (ALAG), and other constituents.
• Partner with the Engagement & Events Team to assist USAFA with the annual USAFA Memorial commemoration.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for next of kin, manage correspondence, coordinate family communications, and facilitate donation opportunities with Development and Planned Giving teams.
• Manage relationships with surviving spouses and families to maintain Association membership benefits, support services, and tailored communications.
• Establish and maintain protocols for next-of-kin benefits, memorial tributes, condolence correspondence, and recognition practices.
• Lead the Gone, But Not Forgotten notification process, sharing obituary and funeral or memorial information with the graduate community as appropriate.
• Support maintenance and review of the Gone But Not Forgotten webpage and help compile tribute information for Checkpoints and Here’s a Toast publications.
• Support the Reunion team with Class Memorial Brochures and fall ceremonies, and coordinate support and visits with next of kin of reunion classes.
• Develop, maintain, and annually review program guidelines, standards, and standard operating procedures for next-of-kin services.
• Manage the project budget by tracking expenditures, monitoring available funds, and ensuring expenses align with approved funding.
• Represent the Association & Foundation, as appropriate, at funerals, memorial ceremonies, and official observances.
• Provide education and insight into Air Force and USAFA priorities to keep memorial and survivor programs aligned with USAFA missions and values.
• Identify and implement process improvements to strengthen family support, communications, and program delivery.
• Perform other assigned duties, including mentoring or supervising staff supporting next-of-kin and memorial programs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with up to a 6% employer match.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• 12 holidays.
• Additional time off during the winter holiday break.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Free tickets to Air Force basketball, hockey, and other events.
• Gym access.
• Flexible work arrangement: office work Monday through Thursday with the option to work remotely on Fridays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager