Job: SPARC Open Education Project Manager. Application end: November 19, 2021.

SPARC is seeking a committed advocate with a strong record of getting things done to serve as a Project Manager on our Open Education team. This grant-funded position will spearhead SPARC’s advocacy efforts for affordable and equitable models for access to digital textbooks in higher education. The first priority will be launching the second phase of SPARC’s InclusiveAccess.org initiative, which will involve coalition outreach, awareness raising, and the development of webinars and other programming directed primarily at U.S. institutions and states. The position’s portfolio will also grow to include related projects under SPARC’s Open Education program, including engaging with SPARC’s library membership community, developing key resources to support advocacy, and working to implement effective policies. While the initial focus of this position will be in the U.S. context, SPARC’s membership spans the U.S., Canada, and affiliates around the world.

Position Title: Open Education Project Manager

Location: Virtual, based anywhere. Candidates located in the U.S. will be considered for employment and must be U.S. work authorized. Candidates located outside the U.S. be considered for an independent contractor position.

Hours & Schedule: 40 hours per week (average), generally available weekdays at 9am-5pm local time. Some early morning, evening, and weekend hours may be necessary. Occasional overnight travel to meetings, conferences, etc. (negotiable, but estimated at 3-5 trips per year). 

U.S. Overtime Status: Exempt. 

Compensation: $45,000 – $60,000 USD per year, commensurate with relevant experience (candidates with less experience will start at the lower end of the range). U.S. based candidates will also receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance, a 3% employer match on 401(k) contributions, fitness benefit, and paid time off. 

Reports to: Nicole Allen, Director of Open Education

Availability: This position is grant-funded and is available for an initial 12-18 month period, with the possibility of extension. The position starts as soon as possible after the offer is made, no later than January 3, 2022.

Position Responsibilities

• Serve as day-to-day project manager for InclusiveAccess.org and other SPARC initiatives on textbook access/equity, working closely with the Director of Open Education to establish objectives and project plans.
• Proactively drive project implementation, including executing tasks, managing deadlines, tracking progress, and coordinating with team members and advisors.
• Coordinate project-related programming and communications, including webcasts, workshops, meetings, blog posts, and regular posting on social media. 
• Conduct outreach to educate and engage new coalition partners, community members, and other key stakeholders.
• Draft and maintain quality written materials, including fact sheets, advocacy resources, and basic web and social media content. 
• Represent SPARC at relevant events and conferences, including occasional in-person or virtual public speaking.
• Participate in SPARC’s broader Open Education and equity work as assigned.

Required Experience, Education, and Knowledge

• 1-5+ years of professional experience in a role that involves project management, coordination, or implementation. 
• Experience should include at least one of the following areas: advocacy (preferred), student government or other student leadership positions, coalition building, grassroots campaigns, strategic communications, or community organizing. 
• No specific field of study or degree is required, but a bachelor’s degree or equivalent level of coursework, training, or on-the-job experience is preferred.
• Candidates must be familiar with U.S. or Canadian higher education and the general issues surrounding college affordability and textbook costs in these contexts. U.S. familiarity is preferred.
• Working knowledge of common computer software including Google Suite (Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, etc.) is required, along with a general facility with various virtual communication and productivity tools.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Consistent track record of being able to develop and execute plans to achieve objectives.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills,