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Employment Opportunities

​About the Mechanics' Institute

The Mechanics' Institute (Institute), was founded in 1854 and is one of San Francisco's enduring arts and culture institutions, described by the San Francisco Chronicle as a "vibrant cultural oasis." Located in a historic building in downtown San Francisco, the Institute offers a vibrant full-service library, a world-renowned chess club providing expert instruction and opportunities for competition for youth and adults, and a robust calendar of cultural events, programs, and classes. The Institute engages local, national, and international audiences with our in-person and virtual programs and services.  

Current Openings:

Program Manager | Chief Executive Officer | Chess Instructor | Lead Chess Instructor | Chess Tournament Director or Lead Chess Tournament Director | Communications Manager 

 

Program Manager

 

The Program Manager is responsible for providing a variety of programming to support members’ pursuits in lifelong learning through collaboration and partnership, both internally and externally. This includes a broad range of offerings, classes, and events to feature the Mechanics' Institute (Institute) library programming and other activities. Working with the Programs Team and their supervisor, this position strategizes and facilitates programming to serve members and the public through historical, contemporary, and creative programs offered consistently throughout the year in alignment with the Institute’s strategic goals and initiatives.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Conceive, plan, facilitate, and evaluate programming to support and increase member engagement, public participation, and organizational mission in alignment with the Institute’s strategic plan and initiatives. These events may be planned in collaboration with members of the programs team.
  • Develop and disseminate resource lists, publications, guides, and other materials following events and programs. This may include providing appropriate references and resources for members and program participants based on events and information discussed.
  • Explore and propose partnerships with external organizations and/or contractors which benefit the interests of members and mission of the Institute to heighten program visibility and increase engagement. In addition to regularly offered onsite and virtual/hybrid programming, this may include providing offsite programming, developing events with partners, and other opportunities.
  • Conduct public tours which may be weekly or working to schedule appropriate staff to cover weekly tours. Special interest, private, or evening tours may also be scheduled as requested or assigned.
  • Work with supervisor and colleagues to create features for publication and display that reflect members’ interests and promote materials for accessibility and engagement. This may include visual displays for vitrines, articles or blog posts for the website and social media, email, reports, and historical or education documentation.
  • Deliver accurate and thorough information and instruction in classroom or individual settings.
  • Work with supervisor and team colleagues to develop and administer evaluation standards for programs, assess effectiveness of programs based on feedback, and suggest and implement improvements for subsequent offerings.
  • Participate in the generation of content for marketing materials, social media, and publications to promote the Institute’s mission and work. Provide insights and content as requested for internal and external communications.
  • Participate in staff development and continuing education activities with the intent to provide support, training, and guidance to members and colleagues.
  • Other duties as assigned.

 

DUTIES SPECIFIC TO THIS POSITION

  • Develop or cultivate and schedule special interest lectures based on the history of the Mechanics’ Institute, San Francisco, and/or California to be delivered onsite or in hybrid settings, as well as potentially to external partners, on a regular basis as determined with supervisor. This may be monthly, quarterly, or biannually based on needs and interests of the members.
  • Manage writing and writers activities and events, classes facilitated by special guests, themed writing groups, and other activities.
  • Research and facilitate educational and reference courses which may include technology-based classes, reference material-based classes, financial literacy courses, and other topics. Courses may be facilitated by Program Manager or led by other staff or non-staff members according to their talents and expertise.
  • Manage the book groups which includes reserving space onsite or hosting online, ordering materials and preparing reading lists, leading discussions as needed, and coaching member leaders for discussion groups. Prepare book group selections for checkout needs.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • A bachelor’s degree is required. A graduate degree in education, library science (MLS/MLIS), or similar field is a plus.
  • At least two (2) years of programming experience, including program and partnership development, event management, and/or participant engagement.     
  • Strong computer and technology skills, including databases and MS Office Suite. Audio visual (AV) equipment usage experience is a plus.  
  • Strong organizational, problem solving, and time management skills. Ability to juggle multiple priorities simultaneously, complete assigned projects in a timely manner, keep accurate records and files, and demonstrate flexibility to accommodate shifting priorities.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with courtesy with members, the public, and colleagues. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • A thorough understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence and diversity, equity, and inclusion values.
  • Availability to work Saturdays and weekday evenings as needed for programs.

 

Compensation and Benefits:

  • This is a full-time exempt position
  • The salary range for this role is $65,000-$75,000, commensurate with experience.
  • Benefits include generous health-dental-vision insurance, paid vacation, holidays and a 403b pension plan
  • Membership to the Mechanics’ Institute

 

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include “Program Manager” in the subject line
  • Include salary requirement (a range is fine)
  • Position will remain open until filled
  • No phone calls please, all applications, resumes and letters of interest must be submitted electronically

 

Chief Executive Officer, Mechanics' Institute

 

The Mechanics’ Institute seeks a CEO to lead and manage this historic and thriving cultural institution.

Founded in 1854, and with more than 3,000 members, the Mechanics’ Institute offers a vibrant general-interest library, the oldest continuously operating chess club in the United States, and an ever-evolving selection of literary and cultural events.    

Located in downtown San Francisco in a landmark building that it owns, the Mechanics’ Institute provides a gathering place, forum, and workspace for its members, guests, and building tenants. The Mechanics’ Institute funds its operations from building rents, annual membership dues, donations, and income from its healthy endowment fund.

With grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Mechanics’ Institute plays a leadership role in the cultural landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area.  The Board seeks a dynamic CEO who will manage a staff team of approximately 40 full and part-time staff, to strengthen and expand this extraordinary San Francisco treasure as a center for education and cultural engagement.

 

The Position:  Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

  • Provides leadership and strategic direction to fulfill and enhance the Institute’s mission and vision, executing on the organization’s strategic plan;
  • Models positive, effective management, with a focus on financial stability, excellence, staff and board development, and a workplace culture that welcomes ideas and innovation;
  • Works actively with Senior Director of Operations in managing and seeking earned income from the building’s 60,000 sq. ft. of retail and office space;
  • Serves as a passionate and persuasive spokesperson for the Institute to members, funders, the public, government and private agencies, and the media;
  • Supervises Senior Director of Operations, Senior Director of Programs and Community Engagement, Senior Director of Finance and Administration, and Director of Development and Membership, along with a general administrative assistant, with five direct reports from a total staff of 40 full and part-time employees;
  • Creates and monitors the annual capital and operating budgets in consultation with the Board and staff and leads efforts to develop diversified foundation, individual, public, and corporate funding sources;
  • Spearheads strategic and operational planning and ensures policies and organizational standards meet nonprofit and legal requirements;
  • Reports directly to and communicates regularly with the Board of Trustees, which meets six times a year;  
  • Presides at biannual members’ meetings and responds to member concerns, questions, and suggestions throughout the year; and
  • Is the face of the Institute to the public.

 

The Ideal Candidate:

  • Is an experienced leader with extensive personnel management skills and experience, including change management and other modern management tools, theories and tactics;
  • Has a demonstrated passion for libraries, chess, and cultural/literary institutions;
  • Communicates well and is comfortable speaking in public;
  • Has experience in building collaboration across functional areas and supporting professional staff development, as well as thorough understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence and diversity, equity, and inclusion values;
  • Can demonstrate substantial successes in managing an organization with diversified earned income; fundraising and garnering corporate and foundation support; and in soliciting donations from a wide range of funding sources;
  • Demonstrates a strong grasp of marketing and branding, as well as success in leveraging social media and other tools to communicate, manage, and drive membership, engagement, and support;
  • Experienced in promoting the use of emergent technologies to support the operation of the Institute;
  • Has substantial nonprofit experience; understands and respects the function of a board of trustees;
  • Provides creative board development and management skills to enhance the effectiveness of the trustees’ work.

 

Compensation and Benefits:

  • This is a full-time exempt position
  • The salary range for this role is $175,000-200,000, commensurate with experience.
  • Benefits include generous health-dental-vision insurance, paid vacation, holidays and a 403b pension plan
  • Membership to the Mechanics’ Institute

 

Physical Demands

  • The position requires the ability to walk, stand, carry materials, stoop, kneel, bend at the waist, reach overhead, and climb stairs.
  • The work may require sitting and/or standing for long periods of time and may require lifting up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • The Institute is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations.

 

Working Environment

  • Onsite work is performed within a standard office and library environment.
  • Will be required to operate basic office equipment including but not limited to computer, printers, telephone, etc.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually at low to moderate.

 

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include “CEO” in the subject line
  • Include salary requirement (a range is fine)
  • Position will remain open until filled
  • No phone calls please, all applications, resumes and letters of interest must be submitted electronically
  • Applications received by 4/30/23 will be considered for interviews in May 2023

 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

The Mechanics' Institute is committed to building an equitable and inclusive workplace and seeks talented staff from diverse backgrounds. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex (including the actual gender or perception of sex identity, appearance or behavior), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics legally protected by federal, state, or local laws and regulations.

 

Chess Instructor

 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Chess Program Manager, the Chess Instructor will teach regular classes and assist Lead Chess Instructors for large classes for scholastic chess programs. Scholastic chess includes classes held at Mechanics' Institute, on school campuses during or after school hours, online classes, seasonal camps, and weekend classes. Qualified candidates should have a foundational knowledge of chess and be familiar or be willing to be trained in chess instructional techniques. Candidates should also have a basic foundation in classroom management and conflict resolution strategies, particularly working with children. The Chess Instructor will be part of the Mechanics’ Institute team, working on building a culture of unity and quality that reflects outward to the community.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Deliver dynamic lessons for students of varying levels of experience.
  • Help manage larger classes and support the Lead Chess Instructor in teaching students.
  • Promote chess tournaments, classes, camps, and other chess events to scholastic participants.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with school administrators and parents when needed and as directed by the Lead Chess Instructor.
  • Attend professional development and staff meetings when scheduled and as needed.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Basic knowledge of chess principals (pieces, checkmate, basic pins/ forks/ tactics/ strategies).
  • Prior experience working with children, with preference to specific experience in teaching or assisting with scholastic chess.
  • Familiarity with classroom management strategies.
  • Can follow lesson plan supplied by the institute and/or lead coach.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer proficient with experience with MS Office.
  • Ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Strong problem-solving and time management skills.
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills – ability to communicate with members, donors, staff, and the public in a friendly and professional manner by phone, email, and in person.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to travel from one class location to another and lift up to 20lbs.

 

Compensation and Benefits

  • This is a part-time position. Compensation is based on available and assigned classes, and instructors are paid for classes taught per week. Compensation is $45 per hour for class and preparation time. Travel time between classes on the same day, aside from unpaid break times, will be compensated at the San Francisco or local worksite minimum wage, whichever is higher. 
  • Membership to the Mechanics' Institute.

 

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include "Chess Instructor" in the subject line.
  • Position will remain open until filled.
  • No phone calls please.

 

Lead Chess Instructor

 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Chess Program Manager, the Lead Chess Instructor will provide regular instruction and leadership in our in-person scholastic chess programs. Scholastic chess includes classes held at Mechanics' Institute, on school campuses during or after school hours, online classes, seasonal camps, and weekend classes. Qualified candidates should have a foundational knowledge of chess and be familiar or be willing to be trained in chess instructional techniques. Candidates should also have a solid foundation in classroom management and conflict resolution strategies, particularly working with children, as well as experience in supporting and training other instructors. The Lead Chess Instructor will be part of the Mechanics' Institute team, working on building a culture of unity and quality that reflects outward to the community.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Plan, prepare, and deliver dynamic lessons for students of varying levels of experience.
  • Successfully manage classrooms including reporting accurate roll and absences, setting learning expectations, adhering to school rules and regulations, and reporting any classroom challenges.
  • Provide leadership and support to other Chess Instructors. This includes helping train Chess Instructors, supervise large classes with multiple instructors, and manage other high-level classroom and education initiatives.
  • Work with the Chess Program Manager to develop curricula, create lesson plans, and draft new exercises and worksheets for classroom and homework usage. 
  • Promote of chess tournaments, classes, camps, and other MI Chess Club events to scholastic participants.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with school administrators and parents when needed.
  • Attend professional development and staff meetings when scheduled and as needed.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A minimum of one year of chess instruction in a classroom and/or at three years of teaching elementary or middle school students in academic or general enrichment classes.
  • Strong knowledge of chess principals (pieces, checkmate, basic pins/ forks/ tactics/ strategies).
  • Prior experience working with children, with preference to specific experience in teaching or assisting with scholastic chess.
  • Familiarity with classroom management strategies.
  • Ability to manage a class size of 15+ students: assess, group and assign students into different groups, supervise other instructors, and manage rosters, attendance, performance.
  • Communicate with parents about students' progress.
  • Address any classroom issues as needed and report situations to supervisor about class status: challenges, problems, achievements, and potential leads.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer proficient with experience with MS Office.
  • Ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Strong problem-solving and time management skills.
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills – ability to communicate with members, donors, staff, and the public in a friendly and professional manner by phone, email, and in person.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to travel from one class location to another and lift up to 20lbs.
  • Chess instructor title or chess player title (USCF of FIDE) is a plus.
  • Preferred Experience: Experience in teaching chess or similar enrichment classes and bachelor's or higher degree in education or similar area of study. 

 

Compensation and Benefits

  • This is a part-time position in local schools and other sites. Compensation is based on available and assigned classes at $50 per hour for class and preparation time. Any travel time between classes on the same day, aside from unpaid break times, will be compensated at the San Francisco or local worksite minimum wage, whichever is higher. 
  • Membership to the Mechanics' Institute.

 

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include "Lead Chess Instructor" in the subject line.
  • Position will remain open until filled.
  • No phone calls please.

 

Chess Tournament Director or Lead Chess Tournament Director

  • Department: Programming
  • Reports to: Sr. Director of Programs & Community Engagement
  • FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
  • Status: Part-time, On Call

​

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chess Tournament Director (TD) or Lead Chess Tournament Director (Lead TD) provides onsite tournament directing for in-person events at the Mechanics' Institute. There may also be opportunities to direct tournaments virtually and at other venues, depending on Institute approval. The TD and Lead TD may also participate in arranging matches, tracking scores, and assisting with player sign-ups for events. The TD must have a current certification from US Chess and be eligible to direct tournaments, and the Lead TD must also be FIDE-certified.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Organizes and directs chess tournaments for the Institute at the historic Mechanics' Institute Chess Room. Other tournaments may be scheduled in the community or online with prior approval from the supervisor.
  • Participates in arranging matches, tracking scores, and assisting with player engagement as needed. Processes and submits tournaments for rating in US Chess as needed.
  • Works with the programming team to ensure scheduling of tournaments works with the broader Institute calendar and is coordinated to complement other chess events so that the
  • Institute maintains a collaborative approach in the chess community.
  • Makes suggestions for technology advances and equipment to support the facilitation of chess tournaments.
  • Assists with trouble shooting onsite concerns during tournaments and represents Mechanics' Institute to attendees.
  • Other tournament-related duties as assigned and approved by the supervisor.

​

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • At least two years (2) years of experience as a chess tournament director.
  • Certification as a US Chess Federation Tournament Director for TD level.
  • For Lead TD level, US Chess along with FIDE National Arbiter or higher license required.
  • Experience in organizing events and availability to work some evenings and weekend days.
  • Excellent research, organizational, and verbal and written communication skills.
  • Technology savvy, with experience in Microsoft Office required. Familiarity with chess software a strong plus.
  • A thorough understanding of the importance of collaboration, emotional intelligence, and diversity, equity, and inclusion values.
  • Ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Strong problem solving and time management skills. Ability to work well independently and collaboratively with a team.

​

Compensation and Benefits

  • This is a non-exempt, part-time position. Compensation is based on TD or Lead TD requirements and is at an hourly rate established for the role. Any other work outside of tournament directing must be pre-approved by the supervisor and will be compensated at the established rate for each function, such as tournament preparation work, broadcasting, writing, and administrative work.
  • Benefits include sick time and membership to the Mechanics' Institute.

​

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include "Chess Tournament Director" or "Lead Chess Tournament Director" in the subject line.
  • Position will remain open until filled.
  • No phone calls please.

 

Communications Manager

  • Department: Membership/Development
  • Reports to: Development & Membership Director
  • FLSA Classification: Exempt
  • Status: Regular Full-time (37.5 hours)

​

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications Manager is responsible for institutional communications, including annual reports, newsletters, and member correspondence. The position also assists with development of grant program ideas, proposals, and grants management. The Communications Manager helps drive membership initiation and engagement and supports fundraising and donor activities. This position collaborates with the development and membership team on strategic initiatives and other projects.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Design, write, and publish print and online Institute collateral, including marketing materials, annual reports, newsletters, and member communications, such as renewal notices, handbooks, policies, and forms
  • Manage website and email marketing. Coordinate and implement digital marketing strategy and promotion to support Institute branding.
  • Create and implement membership plans and campaigns to drive member acquisition, retention, and stewardship. Gather data and analyze success of these campaigns to help inform future planning.
  • Assist in envisioning, designing, and implementing new fundraising campaigns and activities, such as chair appeal, annual giving, direct mail campaigns, and donor events. Help coordinate major fundraising events, donor and member events, and related outreach.
  • Work with events, chess, library, archives, and special collections staff preparing exhibits and communications for members and the public. Provide guidance and instruction to staff in the use of collateral for dissemination purposes.
  • Build files or databases of images, brand items, etc. and ensure access and consistency in digital archive and finding aids. Build and improve branding guide. Conduct periodic audits of collateral and data.
  • Manage vendor relationships for stationery and supplies, publication of materials, and work with engravers and other contracted services for communication and engagement projects.
  • Participate in member and donor events, special events, and programs to support member and donor cultivation activities. Build relationships.
  • Assist in researching and writing grant proposals and letters of inquiry and provide support for corporate or other funding outreach. Assist management of grant contracts and compliance with funder requirements.
  • Work collaboratively with development director and staff on institute-wide projects, including goal setting, financial and strategic planning, development of communications and branding guides, and team-building projects.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. The qualifications listed in this job description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with qualified disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Bachelor’s degree required, as well as at least two years of communications experience.
  • Familiarity with graphic design, user experience, and communications platforms.
  • Exceptional research, written, and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated accuracy and thorough attention to detail.
  • Cultural sensitivity and awareness as it relates to our mission, membership, and public.
  • Excellent service skills – ability to communicate with members, donors, staff, vendors, and the public in a friendly, helpful, and professional manner.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, time management, and project management skills. Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. Understanding of privacy and related laws as related to public use of likeness, etc.
  • Interest or experience with membership or library organization and/or non-profit.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings or weekend to support events.
  • Proficiency with MS Office, Zoom, Adobe Creative Suite, and other design and dissemination platforms a plus.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings or weekend for events.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience with fundraising and membership databases.
  • An advanced degree in communications or related field.

​

Compensation and Benefits

  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
  • The compensation for this position is $70,000-85,000 per annum, with initial starting pay commensurate with experience and anticipated at $70,000-75,000. The position may also be considered for 80% FTE.
  • Benefits include generous health-dental-vision insurance, paid vacation, holidays, and a 403b plan. Membership to Mechanics’ Institute is also provided.

​

To Apply

  • Send cover letter and resume to [email protected] and include "Communications Manager" in the subject line.
  • Position will remain open until filled.
  • No phone calls please.

 

These job descriptions are not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

 

All positions have the following:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Requires the ability to walk, stand, carry materials, stoop, kneel, bend at the waist, reach overhead, and climb stairs.
  • May require sitting and/or standing for long periods of time.
  • May be required to lift up to 25 pounds on a regular basis.

​

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

  • Onsite work is performed within a standard office environment and/or chess room.
  • Will be required to operate basic office equipment including but not limited to computer, printers, telephone, etc.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually at low to moderate.

 

The Mechanics' Institute is committed to building an equitable and inclusive workplace and seeks talented staff from diverse backgrounds. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex (including the actual gender or perception of sex identity, appearance or behavior), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics legally protected by federal, state, or local laws and regulations.