Van Nuys, California
Fort Washington, Pennsylvania
Posted: 04-Mar-26
Location: La Jolla, California
Type: Full Time
Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 annualized.
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La Jolla Country Day School is seeking a relationship-driven and mission-aligned associate director of admission to lead the Middle School admission process. This position is integral to the development and execution of a comprehensive enrollment management plan designed to achieve the school’s strategic enrollment goals. Working closely with members of the admission team and in active partnership with divisional leadership and faculty, the associate director serves as a primary ambassador of the school for families with children entering grades 5-8. In this role, they guide prospective families through the admission process with warmth, professionalism, and care, while strengthening LJCDS’s presence in the broader San Diego community.
A strong understanding of the Middle School experience, and the critical transition into Upper School, is essential. The associate director must be able to thoughtfully articulate the developmental arc of a student’s journey at LJCDS, clearly describing the full trajectory from Middle School foundations to Upper School opportunities, leadership growth, and post-secondary outcomes.
The ideal candidate brings experience in independent school or university admission, exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills, a collaborative team-oriented mindset, and a deep commitment to building an inclusive and welcoming community.
Why Join La Jolla Country Day School?
We are a mission-driven community committed to equity and belonging. Our students are inspired to become compassionate leaders and responsible global citizens. The admission team plays a vital role in shaping the future of our school by cultivating a vibrant student body and building authentic partnerships with families.
If you are energized by forming meaningful relationships, telling a compelling institutional story, and supporting families through an important educational decision, we would love to meet you.
What You’ll Do
Marketing & Outreach
- Collaborate with the admission team to develop and implement a marketing strategy aligned with strategic enrollment goals
- Participate actively in the San Diego Independent School Admissions Consortium
- Develop and maintain a steady pipeline of interested, mission-appropriate families by building strong relationships with feeder schools, local organizations, and current and former families
- Clearly and compellingly communicate the vision, mission, and promise of LJCDS to prospective families and the broader community
Admission Management
- Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of the school’s philosophy, programs, curriculum, and policies
- Host parent tours and interviews with deep listening skills and a personalized approach
- Coordinate Middle School admission and enrollment efforts
- Coordinate prospective family visits, student shadow days, and interviews
- Plan and execute admission events in collaboration with colleagues
- Participate in admission committee meetings and contribute thoughtfully to enrollment decisions
- Cultivate positive relationships with faculty and staff to ensure a smooth and welcoming admission experience for families
Who You Are
- Mission-Aligned Ambassador: You communicate the school’s values with authenticity, enthusiasm, and clarity.
- Relationship Builder: You cultivate trust and lasting connections with students, families, faculty, and community partners.
- Strategic Collaborator: You work effectively within a team to advance shared enrollment goals.
- Detail-Oriented Organizer: You manage multiple processes simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and follow-through.
- Empathetic Communicator: You listen with care, speak with clarity, and write with precision across a wide range of audiences.
- Growth-Oriented Professional: You demonstrate adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Equity-Minded Community Member: You value diversity and are dedicated to fostering belonging across all constituencies.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field required
- Minimum of 3 years of admission experience or related experience in an independent school or university setting
- Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated warmth, enthusiasm, and respect in varied settings
- Proven detail-oriented approach and strong organizational skills
- Proficiency with Google Workspace; comfort with enrollment management systems and emerging technologies
- Bilingual language skills (Spanish/English or Mandarin/English) are an asset
Professional Skills
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills in dynamic environments
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality
- Excellent multitasking and time-management abilities
- High emotional intelligence and professionalism
- Comfort engaging with children, adolescents, and adults
- Commitment to collaboration, innovation, and community building
Work Environment & Schedule
- Full-time, in-person, campus-based role
- Work is performed in a typical office/classroom environment with moderate noise levels; variations may occur during school events
- Both sitting and standing are required during a regular workday
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 lbs
- Ability to work at a desk and computer for extended periods
- Ability to turn, bend, reach, and move throughout campus
To be considered, please submit:
- A current resume or CV
- A cover letter describing your interest in joining the Country Day community and your relevant experience
All school personnel must successfully complete a fingerprint background check through Live Scan and provide current tuberculosis clearance.