La Jolla Country Day School

Associate Director of Admission


Pay$90000.00 - $105000.00 / year
LocationLa Jolla/California
Employment typeFull-Time

This job is now closed

  • Job Description

      Req#: 493022
      Schools play an important role in the partnership of cultivating a child’s social, emotional and intellectual development. From the Early Childhood Center to the Upper School, La Jolla Country Day School (LJCDS) offers students a safe environment to explore, exchange thoughts and ideas, make mistakes, challenge the status quo, develop a work ethic and grow to become the best versions of themselves. We honor that each child is an individual, therefore the educational journey is nurtured and customized for each student.


      We are in search of an associate director of admission who enjoys working with families seeking an education that will prepare their children not only for the world as it is but as it will be. This individual will guide families of Lower School students (age 3-Grade 4) looking for their educational home through the admission process, showcasing our educators and programs. This position will begin in July 2024.


      The associate director of admission is integral in the development of an overall marketing strategy and the associated activities needed to achieve the school’s enrollment goals. They are responsible for representing the school to the inquiring public and assisting applicants and their families through the application process. Knowledge or experience with the culture of independent schools is desirable. Working on nights and weekends will be required, periodically. Strong writing skills and the ability to write well under deadlines is desired. A sense of humor, joie de vivre and genuine caring for children and their families is a must. A willingness to work in a close team atmosphere and to exceed expectations in every area is crucial.


      Essential Duties and Responsibilities

      Marketing and Outreach

      • Collaborate with the admission/enrollment team to develop a marketing strategy to support strategic enrollment goals and targets
      • Participate in the San Diego Independent School Admissions Consortium
      • Develop a steady pipeline of interested, mission-appropriate families by establishing strong community relationships with feeder schools, local organizations, and current and past families
      • Understand and communicate the vision and promise of LJCDS to the public

      Admission Management

      • Possess a thorough understanding of the school philosophy, programs, curriculum, and policies
      • Host parent tours/interviews, utilizing excellent listening skills
      • Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with faculty and staff to inspire the cooperation and assistance of each individual during the admission process
      • Coordinate admission events
      • Participate in admission committee meetings
      • Coordinate prospective family visits and interviews
      Position Requirements
      • Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a t least 5 years of experience in admission or related experience in an independent school or university
      • A demonstrated ability to convey warmth, enthusiasm, and respect in a variety of settings and across a broad spectrum of groups and individuals
      • Demonstrated human diversity awareness and sensitivity
      • Demonstrated ability to think and act innovatively and strategically
      • Proven record of detail-oriented approach and strong organizational skills
      • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
      • Ability to physically assist with event set-up and breakdown, as needed
      • Bilingual language skills (Spanish/English or Mandarin/English) are an asset


      To perform this job successfully, an individual should have working knowledge of Google Workspace and Microsoft Office, and be able to learn to use other applications and hardware (Blackbaud, Apple TV, On Record, Seesaw, Zoom, etc.).


      The ideal candidate is committed to leading and learning with dignity, and working in an environment where anti-racist education and culturally responsive instructional practices are modeled. They will possess or demonstrate the following: a growth mindset, emotional intelligence, self-motivation, positive energy, strong interpersonal skills, a service-oriented and team approach to work, approachability, adaptability, vulnerability, openness to new and divergent ideas, excellent oral and written communication skills, and comfort in an educational setting where children and adults are present.


      All school personnel must successfully complete a fingerprint background check through Live Scan and provide current tuberculosis clearance.

      Salary range: $90,000-$105,000 annualized. The salary offer to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and years of experience, training, practical knowledge, and education.

      Please submit your current CV/resume, a cover letter detailing qualifications and interest for this role at our school, and at least two writing samples (including email correspondence).


  • About the company

      La Jolla Country Day School (LJCDS), is a premier independent college-preparatory school serving students from age 3 through Grade 12. We welcome you to explore our unique school where the values of a classic education are enhanced with an enlightened mindset. It is a place where proven and progressive meet. At LJCDS, we are committed to “Inspiring Greatness for a Better World.”