Description

The Steam Railroading Institute (SRI) is seeking an inspiring, hands-on Executive Director to lead a volunteer centric nonprofit that operates a railroad artifact with nationwide visibility: steam locomotive Pere Marquette 1225.

This position offers a chance to shape the future of a beloved institution and preserve a vital piece of America’s railroading legacy. If you are a collaborative leader ready to engage deeply with mission, people, and place, we encourage you to apply. This full-time role is an exciting opportunity for a mission-driven professional to oversee a unique blend of operations, fundraising, community engagement, and strategic growth. The Executive Director will guide a small team of staff and dedicated volunteers, champion fundraising and capital development efforts, and serve as a visible ambassador within the community and with key partners, including railroads and local governments.

Ideal candidates bring strong leadership, volunteer recruitment/management/recognition, nonprofit management, and development expertise, with a passion for preservation, public engagement, and operational excellence.

Salary range is $75k-$90k, DOE, generous PTO, health and retirement. To learn more, visit www.michigansteamtrain.com/jobs. To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to apply@michigansteamtrain.com. Position open until filled.

Requirements

Ideal Candidate Qualifications will have at least 5 year’s experience with:

• Demonstrated leadership experience in a nonprofit or business environment, with a preference for experience in 501(c)(3) organizations.
• Proven success in fundraising, including major gifts, grants, and donor stewardship.
• Strong operational and financial acumen, including budget development and reporting.
• Demonstrated experience successfully leading in a volunteer-intensive organization, including building effective relationships between paid staff and volunteers and creating systems that support volunteer recruitment, engagement, supervision, development, recognition, retention, and accountability. Experience working with a nonprofit Board of Directors and engaging in strategic planning processes.

In addition, candidates should also have: 

• Post-secondary degree, at the associate level or higher, preferred.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
• Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.
• Familiarity with the railroad industry or historic preservation strongly preferred.
• Ability to work on-site in Owosso, Michigan, with occasional travel required.

Physical Requirements: Must be able to safely access rail equipment and facilities, including climbing stairs and ladders.