Executive Director
The Generator | Sparks, Nevada
Full-Time | On-Site | Exempt
About The Generator
The Generator is one of the largest and most vibrant makerspaces in the country. Located in the Reno/Sparks area of Nevada, we have 60,000 square feet with shared fabrication space, a professional-grade tool library, and a community of builders, artists, engineers, and entrepreneurs who believe in the power of making things. We are seeking an Executive Director to propel The Generator’s next chapter by leading all development and fundraising efforts, and ensuring the organization has the resources and partnerships needed to grow membership, enhance programming, and deepen its impact in the community.
The Opportunity
This is a rare chance to lead a beloved community institution at a pivotal moment. The Executive Director will serve as The Generator's chief executive, strategic leader, and primary external champion. You will set and execute the organization's long-term vision, oversee day-to-day operations, and build the relationships — with members, donors, partners, and civic leaders — that will sustain and accelerate our growth.
You…
… are a visionary leader who can see the big opportunities and chart a course to achieve them
… have a passion for and/or experience with making community-driven art
… are equally comfortable in a donor meeting, shop floor, and local news show
… have a strong background in nonprofits, fundraising, and/or entrepreneurial growth models
… willingly roll up your sleeves to implement solutions, solve challenges, and resolve conflicts
Key Responsibilities
Vision, Strategic Leadership, & Program Development
● Define and champion The Generator's strategic vision, setting and overseeing multi-year goals in partnership with the Board of Directors.
● Translate organizational values into concrete programs, partnerships, and initiatives that serve our members and the broader community.
● Serve as the organization's primary spokesperson, brand ambassador, and public presence.
Development, Fundraising, & Financial Stewardship
● Lead all fundraising and revenue-generating efforts, including individual donors, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and contributed/earned revenue streams (membership, events, workshops, programs, etc.)
● Cultivate and manage relationships with key donors, institutional funders, and strategic partners.
● Develop and execute an annual development plan with clear targets, timelines, and accountability for staff and Board.
● Identify and pursue new revenue opportunities to diversify and strengthen the organization’s financial base.
● Oversee grant prospecting, applications, reporting, and compliance, maintaining a strategic calendar and pipeline to support both short- and long-term priorities.
● Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board and Deputy Director, ensuring fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and alignment with organizational priorities.
Staff Management & Operations
● With the assistance of the Deputy Director and Facilities Director, oversee organizational operations, including facilities, staffing, programming, membership, and finance.
● Manage and mentor all Generator staff – whether as the direct manager or through additional lines of management (we currently have a staff of nine FT and PT employees).
● Review, manage, and update the staffing structure, responsibilities, and needs in partnership with the Board and Deputy Director.
● Oversee the maintenance and long-term capital planning of the physical facility, equipment, and safety infrastructure in partnership with the Facilities Director. Community & Partnership Engagement
● Engage and grow our membership community, ensuring The Generator remains a welcoming, equitable, and inspiring space for makers of all backgrounds and goals.
● Cultivate strategic partnerships with local organizations (educational institutions, economic development agencies, civic organizations, art and cultural organizations, etc.) and parallel/similar organizations in other geographies.
● Represent The Generator in regional and broader conversations.
Board Relations
● Serve as primary communications liaison between Board and staff.
● Partner closely with the Board, providing timely information, strategic counsel, and transparent reporting.
● Support Board recruitment, onboarding, and development, helping to strengthen governance capacity over time.
● Work with Board leadership to develop and refine policies, priorities, and plans.
The Executive Director will be required to work select evenings and weekends as needed forevents, community engagement, and Board meetings.
Preferred Qualifications
● 5+ years of progressive leadership experience, including experience in an executive or senior-level director position.
● Demonstrated success in nonprofit or social enterprise fundraising, including major gifts, foundation and/or government grants, and partnership development.
● Experience in a membership structure organization.
● Strong financial management skills, including budget development and oversight.
● Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire and persuade diverse audiences.
● Experience leading teams and building organizational culture.
● Genuine enthusiasm for making, fabrication, STEM, the arts, or adjacent fields.
● Familiarity with makerspaces, community workshops, and/or Burning Man culture.
● Established relationships with funders and civic leaders in Northern Nevada and/or Northern California.
Compensation & Benefits
The Generator offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience,
including:
● Salary range: $65,000 – $80,000 annually, depending on qualifications
● Health Reimbursement Account and Wellness Benefits
● Paid time off and organizational holidays
● Full membership access to The Generator and all equipment
Candidates must be based in or willing to relocate to the Reno/Sparks area. Relocation assistance is not available.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit the following to hiringteam@therenogenerator.com with the subject line
"Executive Director Application - Your Name":
● A cover letter describing your relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and why you are drawn to The Generator and this role
● A current resume
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by Friday, April 3rd. We will respond only to those applicants selected for a first-round interview.
The Generator Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability