Major Gifts Officer

Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS)/USA; California (MO); Remote; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Dependent health insurance coverage

Employee assistance program

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Health savings account

Life insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Vision insurance

Job summary

A humanitarian organization is seeking a Major Gifts Officer to manage donor relationships and drive fundraising efforts. Responsibilities include cultivating a portfolio of high-net-worth prospects, developing tailored engagement strategies, and collaborating with leadership to achieve fundraising goals. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree and 3–5 years of relevant experience, along with strong communication skills. This full-time role offers a salary of $130,000-$160,000, and a remote position based in California is preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in major gifts fundraising or related field.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts.
• Ability to manage multiple relationships and priorities professionally.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a portfolio of individual prospects and donors.
• Conduct meetings and outreach to cultivate donor relationships.
• Create customized engagement strategies for each donor.

Skills

Interpersonal and communication skills

Data analysis

Fundraising metrics

CRM systems

Relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree or CFRE certification

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

Reports To: Vice President of Development

Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

About the Company

Rooted in Catholic social thought and driven by our mission to accompany, serve, and advocate for forcibly displaced people, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA (JRS/USA) maintains a deep commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers as they heal, learn, and determine their future. During a time when federal funding for our work is waning, our mission has never been more urgent or inspiring. We’re entering a pivotal chapter of growth, innovation, and advocacy: expanding our impact through global partnerships, private philanthropy, and bold new initiatives. Joining our team now means stepping into a story of resilience—where a belief in the intrinsic dignity of each person meets transformative action. If you’re ready for a professional journey where your work will empower individuals and families seeking refuge to rebuild their lives with a sense of opportunity and hope, consider joining us!

About the Role

The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a key member of the Development team, responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individual donors capable of philanthropic commitments of $10,000+. Reporting to the VP of Development, the MGO will manage a portfolio of high-net-worth prospects, develop tailored strategies to deepen donor relationships, and work collaboratively with internal and external partners to support the organization’s ambitious fundraising goals.

Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management. Manage and grow a portfolio of approximately 100–150 individual prospects and donors with giving capacity of $10,000+.
• Donor Cultivation & Solicitation. Conduct one-on-one meetings, phone calls, and personalized outreach to cultivate relationships and solicit major gifts.
• Strategy Development. Create customized engagement and solicitation strategies for each prospect in the portfolio, aligning their interests with organizational priorities.
• Stewardship. Ensure timely and meaningful stewardship of major donors, including impact reporting, recognition, and ongoing engagement.
• Collaboration. Partner with executive leadership, board members, and program staff to engage donors and communicate the organization’s mission and impact effectively. Work closely with Development Team members, particularly the Sr. Leadership and Planned Giving Officer, Major Gifts Officer, and Annual and Mid-Tier Giving Officer to optimize donor cultivation and stewardship at every level.
• Reporting & Tracking. Maintain accurate and timely records of all donor interactions and gift tracking in the CRM system (Salesforce experience preferred).
• Events & Campaigns. Design and support donor-related events, campaigns, and special initiatives aimed at building relationships with major gift prospects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification a plus.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in major gifts fundraising or related field.
• Proven track record of securing five- and six-figure gifts or equivalent relationship-building success.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to manage multiple relationships and priorities with a high degree of professionalism, discretion, and resilience.
• Experience with data analysis, fundraising metrics, and CRM systems to inform planning and strategy.
• Passion for the organization’s mission; familiarity/experience with Catholic organizations and Jesuit values is a plus.
• Ability to travel locally or regionally for donor meetings.

Equal Opportunity Statement

JRS/USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. JRS/USA does not discriminate against any person because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by the law. We welcome applicants from a diverse spectrum of qualified candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary Range: $130,000-$160,000, commensurate with experience

• 401(k)
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Remote, California-based preferred