Assistant/Associate Director of Development, University Programs

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 59,580 - 108,444; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University in University Park, PA seeks an Assistant/Associate Director of Development to engage alumni and friends as partners in supporting University Programs within the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR). The role drives major gift fundraising, builds relationships with high-net-worth donors, and advances university priorities through strategic solicitations.

The position requires a track record in major gifts, outstanding communication skills, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills for high-net-worth audiences.
• Ability to create and maintain an inclusive environment for students and colleagues.
• Self-motivation and capability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to professional development, learning, and mentorship.

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through communications and proposals.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts.
• Travel extensively across the region and country to pursue strategies and build relationships.
• Track activities against fundraising metrics.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Relationship building (HNWI)

Self-motivation/independence

Teamwork

Mentorship & development

Education

Bachelor’s degree + 1+ year experience or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree (no prior work experience required)

Job description

Position Summary

Assistant/Associate Director of Development – frontline fundraiser engaging alumni and friends as partners in supporting University Programs within the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR).

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through informal and formal communications, including written proposals.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts.
• Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships.
• Track all activities against a fixed and appropriately aggressive set of fundraising metrics.

Qualifications

• Track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, able to build relationships with sophisticated and high‑net‑worth audiences.
• Ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues.
• Self‑motivation and capability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to professional development, learning, and mentorship.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Major Gift Officer – Intermediate Professional: Bachelor's Degree + 1+ year relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Major Gift Officer – Professional: Bachelor's Degree (no prior work experience required; prior experience accepted in lieu of education).

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: $59,580.00 – $108,444.00.

Full‑time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; generous paid time off; and a 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and children.

Location

University Park campus, State College, Pennsylvania.

Background Checks & Clearance

Successful completion of required background checks and motor‑vehicle records check (valid driver’s license required). Employment does not include visa sponsorship.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.