Job Description
Pay: $110,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Job description:
“Where passion and excellence unite.”
Sonoran Science Academy - Phoenix
Lead a School That’s Built to Compete—and Win
Sonoran Science Academy Phoenix is looking for a strong, steady, and forward-thinking Principal to lead a high-performing, STEM-focused, college-prep campus.
This is not a maintenance role. This is a leadership role for someone who can build, coach, and hold the line on expectations, while keeping students at the center of every decision.
SSA Phoenix is part of Sonoran Schools, a well-established charter network serving students across the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas since 2001. Our model is structured, rigorous, and proven.
What You’ll Be Walking Into
• A STEM-focused, college-prep program with clear expectations
• A diverse student population with strong academic goals
• A network that values consistency, accountability, and results
• A team that needs a visible, decisive leader
What You’ll Do
• Set the tone for the campus—academically, operationally, and culturally
• Oversee day-to-day operations (discipline, scheduling, facilities, student services)
• Lead, coach, and evaluate staff with clarity and consistency
• Build and maintain a strong, structured school culture
• Partner with executive leadership on staffing, compliance, and performance
• Drive professional development and continuous improvement
• Ensure systems are followed—PBIS, safety protocols, and academic expectations
• Stay visible and engaged with students, staff, and families
What We’re Looking For
• Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or related field
• Arizona Principal Certification (required)
• IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card (required)
• 5+ years of school leadership experience preferred
• Experience in structured academic environments (charter or traditional)
Leadership Style That Works Here
• Direct, fair, and consistent
• High expectations without unnecessary drama
• Calm under pressure (schools test that daily)
• Strong communicator—no guessing games for staff
• Comfortable making decisions and standing by them
Why Join SSA Phoenix
• Established network with a clear mission and direction
• Autonomy to lead, with support from experienced executive leadership
• A campus where strong leadership makes an immediate impact
• A team that values structure, accountability, and results
Sonoran Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment or in educational programs, services or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disabilities, marital status, genetic information or Veteran Status.
Sonoran Schools has led science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) K-12 education since 2001. With schools in the greater Phoenix and Tucson metro areas, our commitment is to provide a superior academic environment accessible to a diverse population. Through a comprehensive, integrated STEM curriculum and abundant extracurricular opportunities, we instill a life-long love of learning and an understanding of each individual's responsibility to be a productive member of society.
We are committed to nurturing and supporting a school community where students are inspired and continuous professional growth and collaboration among staff are encouraged. We challenge and help our professionals to grow their curriculum and to challenge themselves to become even better educators.
Sonoran Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment or in educational programs, services or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disabilities, marital status, genetic information or Veteran Status.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Education:
• Master's (Required)
Experience:
• School Leadership: 5 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
• Principal Certification (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
• Phoenix, AZ 85008 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
• Phoenix, AZ 85008: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person