Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: N5015 / Development Associate
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 14
HR Review/Approval:RVIEW

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Supports the strategic fundraising efforts of a large University operating unit by designing, implementing, evaluating and refining programs aimed at targeting donors and prospects not exceeding $25,000. Personally identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors and prospects at multiple levels in accordance with performance targets set in collaboration with the UNM Foundation. May assist with major gift donations exceeding $25,000, as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors and prospects at levels typically less than $25,000, including individuals, corporations, and/or foundations through visits and other forms of direct personal contact in accordance with performance targets set in collaboration with the UNM Foundation.
  2. Conducts and/or reviews research to identify prospects and creates strategies to match prospects' interests to the priorities of the unit and the University.
  3. Plans, develops, and implements fundraising projects and programs designed to increase the visibility of the department and enhance giving to the University, such as annual giving campaigns, gift-in-kind programs, and special events.
  4. Interacts with faculty, staff, development colleagues, volunteers, and external constituents to ensure effective coordination of programs, projects, and activities.
  5. Makes effective use of the University's prospect management database and other institutional resources to ensure appropriate management of donors, prospects, alumni, and volunteers in coordination with University objectives.
  6. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the UNM Foundation and University development colleagues to maximize the unit's total gift revenue.
  7. Under supervision, researches, writes, edits, or oversees the preparation of persuasive, accurate, and grammatically and syntactically correct solicitations, proposals, case statements, reports, correspondence, and other development-related communication materials as required.
  8. Provides day-to-day technical and/or professional guidance and leadership as appropriate to the area of expertise.
  9. Supervises and coordinates the work of staff employees and volunteers in day-to-day functional activities, as appropriate.
  10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Demonstrated ability in securing gifts from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other private funding sources.
  • Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
  • Demonstrated ability in planning and implementing long- and short-range development initiatives to meet established priorities.
  • Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
  • Ability to direct and manage staff and volunteers, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Database and records management skills.
  • Working knowledge of a variety of fund-raising strategies and methods.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present effectively to small and large groups.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Ability to conduct research, gather data, analyze information, and prepare reports and other materials.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment, to demonstrate an understanding of ethics related to development activities, and to use discretion in interactions with donors, prospects, volunteers, and others.
  • Ability to foster effective working relationships within a team environment.
  • Skills in budget preparation and fiscal management.
  • Ability to plan, organize and coordinate activities and special events.
  • Ability to provide technical coordination and management of development and/or implementation projects in area of expertise.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) coordination and implementation of strategies targeted at a broad donor base with prospects typically not exceeding $25,000; b) planning and coordination of programs designed to enhance the visibility of the university; c) direct identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of donors and prospects; d) supervision of volunteers and/or lower-level staff in the execution of program activities.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • No or very limited physical effort required.
  • No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
  • Willingness and availability to travel extensively and to work extended hours as necessary.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 04/01/2019