Posted: 20-May-26
Location: Watertown, Connecticut
Type: Full Time
Internal Number: 1
The Taft School seeks a full-time Assistant Director of Admission to join a lively, collegial, and dedicated team for an August 2026 start date. The Assistant Director of Admission is responsible for contributing to the admission and enrollment process for prospective students and their families. They serve as an ambassador for the school’s mission and as a faculty member who supports the learning and development of all Taft students. Assistant Directors carry primary responsibility for territory management, outreach, interviews, application review, and family communication while contributing to a thoughtful, equitable, and mission-driven admissions process. A Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 5 years of Admission experience is preferred. Ideal candidates will have a deep understanding of both domestic and international independent school markets, along with excellent communication and follow-up skills.
Guided by Taft’s motto, Not to be served, but to serve, Assistant Directors of Admission engage fully in the life of a residential boarding school community and play a vital role in welcoming students and families to Taft.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references to the online application through ADP.
Primary Responsibilities
Applicant Engagement & Evaluation
- Conduct interviews with prospective students and families, both on campus and virtually.
- Review applications holistically, contributing thoughtfully to admissions committee discussions.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with families throughout the admissions process.
Recruitment & Territory Management
- Manage assigned geographic territories and recruitment responsibilities in alignment with institutional priorities.
- Travel for a minimum of 2 weeks per year.
- Build and maintain relationships with sending schools, counselors, community-based organizations, and prospective families.
- Represent Taft at school fairs, conferences, and recruitment events, including travel during peak seasons.
Admissions Operations & Team Collaboration
- Support the execution of core admissions operations, including campus visit programs, interview scheduling, yield events, and seasonal initiatives.
- Collaborate closely with Senior Associate Directors and colleagues to ensure smooth workflows and consistent practices.
- Participate actively in committee work, file reading, and decision execution.
- One week of in-office work during the summer and other time as needed to prepare for the school year.
Data, Systems & Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate and timely records within admissions systems and platforms.
- Use admissions data and reporting tools to inform recruitment work and territory planning.
- Contribute to ongoing process improvement by identifying operational challenges and offering practical solutions.
Faculty & Community Responsibilities
- Participate fully in faculty life at a residential boarding school. Faculty responsibilities include advising, evening and weekend duty, seated dinners, and two co-curricular programs, as assigned.
- Collaborate with campus partners to support enrolled students and a positive enrollment experience.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of two to four years of experience in admissions, education, or a related field; independent school experience preferred.
- Experience in databases such as Slate and Veracross strongly preferred.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, seasonal environment.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and Taft’s mission and values.
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel during peak admissions periods.
- Authorized to work in the United States of America and be in possession of a valid driver’s license
Portrait of an Educator Alignment:
- Strive for Wisdom – Continuously seek feedback, reflection, and collaboration to deepen their knowledge and enhance practice.
- Find Joy in Purpose – Draw inspiration from meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and the school’s mission.
- Nurture Relationships – Foster empathy, inclusion, and a sense of belonging through authentic, caring relationships.
- Build Resilience – Approach challenges with adaptability, creativity, and balance between personal and professional well-being.
- Practice Humility – Embrace feedback, acknowledge limitations, and view learning as a lifelong process.
- Pursue Excellence – Nurture all dimensions of human flourishing by upholding high standards, seeking out and providing mentorship, and
- striving for improvement.
- Live with Honor – Act with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the community’s shared values.
Position Details
This is a full-time, 10-month, benefits-eligible position that includes either campus housing or housing stipend and use of school facilities including the grounds, athletics center, and dining hall (position specific and subject to availability). Assistant Directors of Admission are essential contributors to the effectiveness, culture, and success of the admissions office.
The Taft School is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of The Taft School to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to age, gender, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, actual or perceived disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran's status, genetic predisposition or any other class protected by law.
