Development Associate

Job Overview: 

The Development Associate plays a crucial role in serving Woodcock’s mission of reconnecting the community to nature by working closely with the Executive Director to facilitate major fundraising campaigns and programs. This role requires a two-year commitment to support the organization’s overall fundraising program but most immediately will support a new major capital fundraising campaign.

Duties include major gift research, tracking and cultivation as well as executing corporate, foundation and government grant proposals. The Development Associate is responsible for supporting all fundraising strategies and will be an advocate in cultivating and stewarding donor relationships to support our growing organization.  

Experience with non-profit fundraising as well as a strong desire and ability to be flexible, creative and work collaboratively with a close-knit team to grow the organization is a must. This position is work from home and approximately 10 hours per week with a flexible schedule but the ideal candidate will live in proximity to the nature center. Opportunities for career growth within the organization are possible and will coincide with the ongoing success of the nature center.

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Work closely with the Executive Director on the development and implementation of a capital campaign, including cultivation events, verbal donor communications, printed materials, gift announcements and written correspondence.
• Manage and coordinate the Board and other volunteers’ involvement in fundraising activities, including regular reporting, scheduling of meetings and generally taking an active role in serving and supporting the Board and committees. 
• Work with the Executive Director to research, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors with a focus on major gifts, including ensuring appropriate communication and recognition of donors.
• Research, write and prepare foundation, corporate and government grant proposals, most immediately related to a major capital fundraising campaign.
• Plan, execute and attend related special events with the Events Manager and Executive Director.
• Be a passionate and informed advocate for the nature center, actively seeking opportunities to engage with the broader community.
• Perform other tasks as needed and directed by the Executive Director.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.  
• A proven track record in the management of successful development programs and fundraising initiatives, including capital campaigns.  
• Seasoned experience (5-7 years) in the solicitation, cultivation and stewardship of individual, corporate and foundation, donors, with an emphasis on high net-worth individuals, and public funding.
• Excellent foundation research and grant writing skills.
• Highly proficient computer skills and detailed knowledge of office software including Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Experience working in database and/or with fundraising programs (ex. NeonOne, ClickBid)
• Strong organizational, time-management and multitasking skills
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, both verbal and written
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality, discretion and professionalism
• Comfortable working in a small team-oriented environment with a sense of humor and creative “think outside the box” mindset
• Enthusiasm for nature, the environment and animals is a plus
• Flexibility to work occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed
• Position contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check

Physical Requirements: 

• This is primarily a work from home office role but the ability to stand/walk for periods of time and lift 40 lbs. is preferred for assistance at events
• Flexibility to work in indoor and outdoor work environments including exposure to outdoor elements
• Must be willing to be around all types of animals

Reports to: Executive Director; works closely with Director of Education, Program Coordinator and Manager of Special Events and Community Relations 

Schedule/Work Environment: This is a flexible, remote position. Occasional weekends and evenings may be required to accommodate special events. Candidates must provide their own computer and home office setup.

Compensation: $22-25 per hour

Benefits: Eligible for program discounts.

To apply: Serious applicants must send a cover letter, resume and two professional references to Lenore Herbst at [email protected]

This position is available immediately. Woodcock Nature Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes people of diverse backgrounds to apply.