Associate Director of Development, University Advancement

The California State University; San Marcos (CA); Hybrid; USD 79,983 - 81,847; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement benefits (CalPERS)

Tuition waiver

15 paid holidays annually

Job summary

The California State University is seeking an Associate Director of Development for its University Advancement team. This full-time, exempt position plays a crucial role in advancing the University’s fundraising efforts by managing a comprehensive donor pipeline and cultivating significant relationships.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and analytical skills, excelling in frontline fundraising. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurances, retirement plans, and generous paid holidays.

Qualifications

• Exceptional time management and organizational skills.
• Strong communication abilities to articulate objectives.
• Data-informed decision-making capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage donor engagement across identification, cultivation, and solicitation.
• Develop strategies to assess donor readiness for major gifts.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Communication

Analytical thinking

Collaboration

Education

Experience in fundraising and donor relations

Job description

Associate Director of Development, University Advancement

Apply now Job no: 558621
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: San Marcos
Categories: MPP, At-Will, Fundraising & Alumni Relations, Full Time, Telecommute eligible (work onsite as scheduled and/or as requested and telecommute as scheduled)

The Associate Director of Development plays a critical role in advancing the University’s fundraising priorities by strategically managing a comprehensive donor pipeline. This position is responsible for the full lifecycle of donor engagement including identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities. It requires exceptional time management and organizational skills to effectively prioritize and move prospects through each stage while maintaining momentum across a diverse portfolio. Success in this role depends on strong communication abilities to clearly articulate the University’s mission and impact while building trust and meaningful relationships with a broad range of constituents.

A key focus of the position is frontline fundraising with a special focus on gifts requiring demonstrated success across both annual giving and major giving, in the $5k-$25k+ range. The Associate Director applies strategic thinking to assess donor readiness, align opportunities with institutional priorities, and move prospects thoughtfully from initial engagement to major gift consideration. This work is grounded in a disciplined approach to planning and execution, supported by a strong work ethic and a commitment to achieving measurable results that contribute to divisional and university wide fundraising goals.

The role also emphasizes the use of data informed strategies to guide decision making and portfolio management. By analyzing donor trends, engagement metrics, and giving patterns, the Associate Director develops targeted approaches that enhance effectiveness and maximize philanthropic outcomes. This analytical mindset, combined with sound judgment and adaptability, ensures that efforts remain focused, efficient, and aligned with evolving institutional needs.

Collaboration is central to the success of this position, as the Associate Director works closely with internal partners and external stakeholders to maximize philanthropic opportunities. The ability to effectively engage, influence, and coordinate with colleagues, donors, and community members is essential to building a strong culture of philanthropy. Through these efforts, the Associate Director advances the University’s mission and upholds its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, fostering an environment where philanthropy supports broad and meaningful institutional impact.

Position Summary

Associate Director of Development (Administrator I) – This is a full‑time, exempt position in the Management Personnel Plan (MPP). MPP positions serve at the pleasure of the President.

Compensation and Benefits

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $7,167 - $7,334 per month

CSU Classification Salary Range: $4,135 - $12,288 per month

Salary is commensurate with the background and experience of the individual selected.

This position is eligible for a broad range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, retirement (CalPERS), tuition waiver, vacation and sick leave. In addition, 15 paid holidays are offered each year; 14 scheduled on specific days and a Personal Holiday that may be taken any time during the year.

Equal‑Opportunity Statement

California State University San Marcos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, physical or mental disability, gender or sex, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion or religious creed, sexual orientation, and veteran or military status.