Senior Director, Major Gifts & Development

New Jersey Institute of Technology; Nebraska; On-site; USD 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark seeks an accomplished fundraising professional to serve as Executive Director of Development within University Advancement. The role leads major gifts efforts, cultivates relationships with alumni and partners, and translates institutional priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities.

The successful candidate will shape strategies, manage a significant donor portfolio, and travel as needed to secure five- and six-figure gifts, while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• 3–5 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience.
• Proven success securing five- and six-figure gifts.
• Experience managing a substantial major gift portfolio.
• Ability to cultivate, solicit, and steward donor relationships.
• Strong written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate with senior leaders and volunteers.
• Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors and strategic partners.
• Identify, solicit, and close major gifts (five and six figures).
• Develop gift strategies aligned with NJIT priorities.
• Conduct personal donor visits and briefings to advance solicitations.
• Prepare proposals and solicitation materials for major gifts.
• Coordinate with colleagues to move prospects through the cycle.
• Maintain a disciplined donor pipeline and track progress toward goals.
• Develop annual and multi-year fundraising plans for portfolios.

Skills

Fundraising experience

Major gifts

Donor relationship management

Excellent communication

Project management

Experience with databases

Travel

Evenings/weekends availability

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Raiser’s Edge

Job description

New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark seeks an accomplished fundraising professional to serve as Executive Director of Development within University Advancement. The role leads major gifts efforts, cultivates relationships with alumni and partners, and translates institutional priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities.

The successful candidate will shape strategies, manage a significant donor portfolio, and travel as needed to secure five- and six-figure gifts, while