Prospect Research & Donor Insights Specialist

Kent State University; Delaware; Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Kent State University is seeking a Prospect Development Specialist to conduct in-depth research on major gift prospects, evaluate financial capacity, and support portfolio development and outreach strategies. You will collaborate with development teams and maintain accurate constituent data.

The role requires at least a bachelor’s degree and one year in prospect research, with a hybrid work schedule after a 90-day training period. Security checks apply and diversity is valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Liberal Arts, Library Science, or a related field.
• One year experience in prospect research or related fundraising field.
• Knowledge of fundraising ethics and APRA/OPRN trends.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth research on major gift prospects using internal and external research tools.
• Identify financial capacity, philanthropic interests, and relationships to develop portfolios and strengthen the prospect pipeline.
• Uncover trends in large data sets and apply findings to guide segmentation and outreach strategies.
• Collaborate with Prospect Management and Portfolio Development in planning and portfolio review meetings.
• Prepare prospect briefing documents for the President and university officials for donor meetings.

Skills

Spreadsheet skills

Database querying

Data mining

Confidential data handling

Communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Donor database software

Job description

Kent State University is seeking a Prospect Development Specialist to conduct in-depth research on major gift prospects, evaluate financial capacity, and support portfolio development and outreach strategies. You will collaborate with development teams and maintain accurate constituent data.

The role requires at least a bachelor’s degree and one year in prospect research, with a hybrid work schedule after a 90-day training period. Security checks apply and diversity is valued.