Overview
Development Principal, Education Programs Jobs in Remote at SEI
Are you a visionary leader with a proven track record in fundraising, strategic partnerships, and scaling mission-driven initiatives? Do you thrive at the intersection of sustainability and education, leveraging your network to drive transformative impact?
SEI is seeking an exceptional Development Principal to lead and expand our fundraising efforts for our education programs, Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps Education Outside. This role is ideal for a seasoned fundraising professional with deep connections in philanthropy, government, and corporate partnerships who can drive large-scale funding initiatives and program growth. As a key member of SEI’s leadership team, you will set ambitious development goals, cultivate high-impact partnerships, and position SEI as a national leader in sustainability education. This is an opportunity to shape the future of innovative climate and education programs while working alongside a dedicated team committed to sustainability and equity.
This position offers flexibility with remote work available for candidates anywhere in the U.S. For those based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we offer a hybrid schedule (2 days in-office, 3 days remote) to support both collaboration and work-life balance.
If you’re a strategic, results-driven development leader ready to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us scale our mission.
The Impact You’ll Make
Lead efforts to reach fundraising targets for SEI’s education programs (Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps Education Outside).
Lead efforts to re-engage existing funders and expand contracts.
Lead development efforts to respond to fundraising opportunities.
Develop strategic relationships and partnerships to grow the program’s portfolio of work.
Collaborate with other members of leadership to advance SEI’s mission and impact.
Set and oversee development, partnership, and fundraising goals for education programs.
Collaborate with education program department heads to set overall program vision and goals for 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years.
Facilitate collaboration with the communications team to grow SEI’s reputation as a leading force in our industry.
Oversee progress toward goals and impacts, and related fundraising targets, budgeting, and staffing projections.
Identify, prepare for, and participate in conferences and events to support network building, partnership development, and organizational reach.
Maintain and develop partner and funder relationships. Represent SEI on a state and national level.
Coordinate with Education Department Heads to ensure program infrastructure is in place for all new projects or growth opportunities.
Contribute to and inform annual and quarterly Education Program budgets and all associated project budgets with Department Heads, and the Accounting and Strategy teams.
Support contracting and related negotiations for new engagements.
Ensure that relevant staff utilize all available tools and technologies appropriately to support program success.
Ensure all relevant staff members have roles and responsibilities to contribute to development efforts.
Support staff members in identifying and escalating issues, growing their capacity to support fundraising, development, and partnership building.
Collaborate with the program teams on initiatives such as expansion into new states and working across the organization to design, build, and implement new engagements.
What You Bring
We encourage anyone interested in this position to apply, even if they do not meet all of the qualifications. We recognize that a unique perspective and background can enhance a role when many, if not all, of the listed qualifications are met.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in climate, sustainability, education, workforce development, or nonprofit.
Extensive experience in fundraising, development, and strategic planning, including the ability to drive large-scale initiatives. Fundraising and development work in the education field is preferred.
Minimum 7 years experience in a leadership role in project or program management, preferably in nonprofit or sustainability industries.
Proven success in project management, program design, and strategy development, focusing on achieving organizational goals through effective collaboration and partnership building.
Experience scaling up a program or geographic expansion is a plus.
Strong leadership skills with a commitment to transparency, mentorship, and accountability for team success.
Demonstrated ability in change management, guiding teams through transitions with a focus on effective communication, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Advanced communication and collaboration skills, including active listening, empathy, and clarity, fostering productive relationships and partnerships.
Skilled at networking, public speaking, and leading group presentations, with a track record of building and maintaining strong external relationships.
Exceptional organizational, analytical, and creative problem-solving abilities, focusing on goal-setting, meeting deadlines, and holding teams accountable.
Ability to manage a regularly changing work environment and collaborate with geographically dispersed team members.
Communicates clearly, effectively, and concisely in all forms of communication.
Comfortable learning and using the digital tools SEI uses, with little to no assistance, including but not limited to Microsoft Office products, Google Workspace tools, Asana project management software, Salesforce, and a variety of proprietary software, and willing to try out new technologies and work tools.
Takes the initiative and completes work without undue supervision. Keeps track of responsibilities and meets deadlines and goals.
Commitment to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment.
Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to SEI’s mission and values.
What We Provide
Greater work-life balance and better personal wellbeing. The flexibility to work remotely for candidates anywhere in the U.S. For those based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we offer a hybrid schedule (2 days in-office, 3 days remote) to support both collaboration and work-life balance.
Annual starting salary ranges from $93,000 to $103,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
Generous paid time off, including 2 weeks vacation, 14 paid holidays, and sick time.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with substantial employer contributions for both employees and their dependents.
403(b) Retirement Plan.
The chance to excel in your strengths, working in areas where you’re naturally talented and professionally trained.
A fair and inclusive workplace dedicated to making real and meaningful changes.
Who Are We?
SEI is a teams-based, non-profit organization dedicated to building leaders who accelerate climate solutions. Through our Education and Workforce programs, we partner with schools, communities, and businesses to develop inclusive and just sustainability leadership pathways from elementary school to early career. Our team is collaborative, creative, and united by a shared purpose. Join us in making a significant impact as we drive our mission forward!
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
We seek candidates who share SEI’s commitment to equity and environmental justice, and who share a commitment to work and learn within an anti-oppression framework. Persons of color, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply. SEI is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity. We believe that a wide array of perspectives contributes to creative climate solutions where all communities thrive. We strive to reflect diverse communities, especially those most impacted by climate change and other kinds of environmental, social, and economic injustices.
Title: Development Principal, Education Programs
Company: SEI
Location: Remote