Executive Director (Part-Time)

American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES)

Position Overview

The American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) seeks a strategic and collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization’s continued growth, visibility, and impact in advancing environmental engineering and science. Working in close partnership with the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director serves as the chief administrative and operational leader of the Academy, responsible for implementing strategy, strengthening programs, and expanding membership and revenue.

This is a part-time position (approximately 20–25 hours per week) with flexibility aligned to Board and committee activities. The role is well-suited for an experienced leader or senior professional seeking a mission-driven leadership opportunity with national reach.

Screening of applications will begin May 15, 2026, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

About AAEES

AAEES is a professional society representing more than 2,000 environmental engineers and environmental scientists. The Academy advances public health and environmental protection by:

Recognizing leadership and excellence through Board Certification of Environmental Engineers and Scientists
Providing professional development opportunities for students and practitioners

AAEES plays a leadership role in the accreditation of environmental engineering programs through ABET and collaborates with a wide range of professional and partner organizations. The Academy also administers the Tau Chi Alpha (TXA) honor society for environmental engineers.

Organizational Profile

~2,000 members
38 volunteer committees
~50 AAEES student chapters
~20 TXA student chapters
20-member Board of Trustees
Annual budget: approximately $450,000
Small professional staff (3 positions)

Strategic Priorities

The Executive Director will advance the Academy’s strategic plan, with emphasis on:

Growing membership to approximately 3,000 by 2030
Expanding and diversifying revenue streams
Strengthening the Patrons Program and external partnerships
Increasing the Academy’s visibility and influence in the profession
Expanding professional development offerings (workshops, webinars, conferences)
Advancing international accreditation initiatives

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Partner with the Board of Trustees to implement the Academy’s strategic plan and organizational priorities
Provide informed guidance to the Board on emerging opportunities, risks, and organizational performance
Support effective governance and Board engagement

Organizational Management

Oversee day-to-day operations of the Academy, ensuring efficient and effective program delivery
Supervise and support staff, establishing clear priorities and accountability
Coordinate and support the work of committees to ensure alignment with strategic goals

Financial Stewardship

Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board
Monitor financial performance and ensure sound fiscal practices
Identify and develop new revenue opportunities, including partnerships and sponsorships

Membership, Certification, and Programs

Oversee and promote membership growth and retention initiatives
Ensure effective administration and visibility of Board Certification programs
Expand professional development offerings and programmatic impact

External Relations and Partnerships

Serve as the primary liaison to sponsoring and affiliate organizations, ABET, CESB, and related entities
Strengthen relationships with stakeholders across academia, industry, and government
Represent the Academy as a visible and credible spokesperson

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in an engineering or scientific field preferred
At least 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in nonprofit, academic, government, or private sector organizations.
Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program development, and organizational leadership
Experience managing staff, budgets, and stakeholder relationships
Familiarity with engineering, scientific, or technical professional societies is strongly preferred
Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with certified professionals and technical stakeholders
BCEE, BCEEM, or BCEES credentials are a plus

Core Competencies

Strategic Thinking: Ability to translate mission into actionable plans and measurable outcomes
Leadership and Integrity: Demonstrates sound judgment, credibility, and adherence to professional ethics
Financial Acumen: Knowledge of nonprofit financial management, budgeting, and resource development
Communication: Written and verbal communication skills; effective public presence
Relationship Building: Ability to build trust and productive partnerships with diverse stakeholders
Organizational Effectiveness: Strong planning, prioritization, and execution skills
Volunteer and Board Engagement: Experience working with volunteer-led organizations and governance structures

Work Structure and Compensation

This is a part-time position (20–25 hours per week). Work is primarily remote, with periodic travel for Board meetings, events, and partner engagement.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Application Process

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF file. Materials should describe relevant leadership experience and interest in advancing the mission of AAEES.

Applications should be submitted electronically to: [email protected]

Questions about the position should be addressed to Charles N. Haas, President-Elect and Search Committee Chair via email: [email protected].

AAEES is an equal opportunity organization and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.