Job Title: Director of Cadet Programs
Salary Family / Group: Executive
Department: Cadet Programs
Location: Maxwell AFB, AL
Remote Work Eligible: Hybrid/Remote work arrangements may be considered for exceptional candidates outside the local area.
Reports To: Chief Operating Officer
Position Type: Full Time
Typical Hours: 40 Hours / Week
Required Travel: Yes, 15-20% per year
Contractor: No
FLSA Status: Exempt
Closing Date: 1 September 2026
Join a mission-driven organization that supports Civil Air Patrol’s Young Leaders! We’re seeking a Director to lead, shape, and continuously improve the Civil Air Patrol’s nationally scoped Cadet Program. The Director, in collaboration with other offices of primary responsibility within Civil Air Patrol, will ensure cadets experience safe, high-quality youth development that supports developing aerospace leaders and future leaders.
Salary Range
$133,000 - $153,000 (annually), based on experience and qualifications.
What You’ll Do
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Develop and implement long-term strategic plans aligned with CAP’s mission.
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Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure cadet programs are innovative, scalable, and sustainable.
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Oversee a diverse portfolio of cadet activities that promotes and expands engagement in aerospace, character, fitness, and leadership development.
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Ensure disciplined, compliant management of the cadet program budgets including appropriated and corporate funds
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Support fundraising, grant execution, and sponsorships in partnership with Development and Government Relations.
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Ensure adequate resourcing and requirements for cadet protection and risk mitigation in out-of-school-time and in-school environments.
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Provide clear roles, expectations, and professional development to ensure team alignment and accountability.
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Serve as liaison to external stakeholders in youth development, military education, nonprofits, and government agencies.
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Represent Cadet Programs through conferences, webinars, publications, and strategic briefings.
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Review and approve training materials and both non-directive and directive guidance.
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Conduct site visits to assess program quality and leadership performance
Supervisory Responsibilities:
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Supervises a team of paid and volunteer staff members responsible for providing Cadet Programs’ capabilities to support CAP’s goals in alignment with the mission, vision, and core values.
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Provides leadership and coaching to teams; empowers staff, manages performance, activities, and priorities while fostering an environment of collaboration, transparency, alignment, and accountability.
What We’re Looking For
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Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in youth development, education, nonprofit management, or a related field.
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At least 5 years in a senior leadership position with demonstrated success in strategic planning, program oversight, and team leadership.
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Proven senior leadership experience in youth development, education, military, or nonprofit sectors.
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Strong strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight skills.
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Deep understanding of youth development, risk management, compliance, and youth protection standards.
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Exceptional communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
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Experience leading diverse teams and working with volunteers in a mission-driven environment.
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Valid driver’s license; ability to pass a comprehensive background check.
Why You’ll Love It Here
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Impact a national organization dedicated to serving our communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
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Enjoy flexibility with hybrid work eligibility.
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Work in a collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth
Benefits
Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans.-
Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and dependent care.
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Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match.
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Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick and personal leave, and holidays.
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Professional Development: Training programs and certification support.
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Life Insurance: Employer-paid coverage.
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Supplemental Insurance: Disability, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity.
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Flexible Work Options: Hybrid/remote work eligibility and family-friendly policies.
Why Work for Civil Air Patrol
At Civil Air Patrol (CAP), you are joining a mission-driven national organization working to save lives, strengthen communities, and shape the next generation of leaders. As the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP blends the purpose of public service with the innovation and agility of a modern nonprofit. Every role contributes directly to meaningful service in America’s communities.
Our people advance youth development, aerospace education, and provide trusted emergency response mission support for military, civil, and government agencies. Working at CAP means collaborating with passionate professionals and skilled volunteers across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and more than 1,400 communities.
We offer an environment where your work makes a visible impact. Employees support first responders after natural disasters, contribute to Air Force-assigned missions, and empower thousands of cadets nationwide. You will be part of a team committed to service, innovation, and continuous learning, with opportunities to grow your career while supporting critical community and national needs.
If you want a career with purpose, teamwork, and the chance to make a difference every day, Civil Air Patrol is where your work truly matters.
Background Check:
The successful completion of a comprehensive background check is mandatory for this role. This is a critical component of our child protection policy and our commitment to providing a safe environment for minors.
To apply, submit a detailed resume. This position does not offer a relocation package. In this position, Civil Air Patrol offers a 401(k)-retirement plan, health/dental insurance, paid life insurance, sick/vacation leave, paid holidays, optional short/long-term disability, vision, critical insurance, accident insurance, and flexible spending accounts. Salary: $133,000 - $153,000. Closing date: 1 September 2026.
