Director of Special Populations

Follow your passion 

Are you looking to make a BIG impact? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

Currently, we operate multiple elementary and middle schools in the Bronx and Upper Manhattan, and are opening three new elementary schools in Queens for the 2025-26 school year. We plan to grow and open 1-2 schools each year because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. Join our growing team today, and be a change agent for children.

Our Network office is located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034. This role sits on our Schooling Team, and while there is some remote work encompassed, the primary role will require in person work daily.

Deliver powerful results

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a Director of Special Populations with a Bachelor’s Degree, and at least 5 years of experience with a proven record of excellent management of Special Education, and preferably experience as a school leader. 

Responsibilities:

• Ensure 100% compliance in special populations including that all students are receiving the supports they need, whether formal or informal
• Ensure that 100% of school-based Student Achievement team members achieve mastery of their role through strong resource creation and excellent professional learning
• Drive 100% of special populations management systems and ensure that they are user-friendly and scalable to ensure consistent implementation and efficacy
• Build and scale our vision of middle school and high school special education
• Wear multiple hats as a part of a lean scale-up team, supporting the work of others on the team and taking on new projects and tasks as needed

Join our purpose-driven community 

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta:

• We are passionate about our mission of providing world-class education to all students
• We bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• We are hungry and determined to not only meet our goals, but surpass them
• We are humble, willing to put the team’s needs ahead of our own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• We have a high bar for excellence and sweat over the details
• We are caring and put team over individual at all times

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. The salary range for this position is between $125,000 and $150,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary at or near the start of the range, depending on relevant experience and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scales. This position is eligible to receive an annual discretionary, merit-based performance bonus.

How does Zeta invest in you? 

We offer great benefits: 

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings 
• Competitive compensation

We provide awesome perks: 

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts – it’s up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace and free Headspace subscription
• MacBook Air and specified monthly reimbursement for use of a mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC’s finest sweet treats
• Books for professional development

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates 
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming

Apply Now!

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).