Apr 15th, 2025
Michigan State University
Assistant Director of Development , Natural Sciences / Development Officer I
( Michigan | On-site )
Job Description
Join the College of Natural Science at Michigan State University as our next Assistant Director of Development
Are you a passionate and strategic fundraiser looking to make a meaningful impact on education? Do you thrive in a collaborative, supportive, and mission-driven environment? The College of Natural Science (NatSci) at Michigan State University is seeking a motivated and relationship-focused individual to join our development team as the next Assistant Director of Development.
The College of Natural Science is home to outstanding research and teaching in the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences. Our faculty, students, and alumni are tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges—from climate change and disease prevention to clean energy and sustainable food systems. This is your opportunity to help fuel those efforts by securing support from donors who share our vision.
As Assistant Director of Development, you will manage a portfolio of 75–100 alumni and donors, focusing on discovery and new donor engagement. You’ll be a front-line fundraiser, meeting regularly with prospects and leading efforts to cultivate long-term relationships in support of college priorities. This position also oversees the annual giving program, including Giving Tuesday, Veterans Day, and Earth Month campaigns—working closely with colleagues across Advancement and campus.
The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, a natural relationship builder, and someone who thrives in a fast-paced and collaborative team culture. You should enjoy travel, have a strategic mindset, and be excited to connect people to purpose.
Key Responsibilities Include:
• Identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding prospects to secure major gifts of $50,000 or more
• Managing a donor portfolio and achieving 12–15 significant contacts per month
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders and faculty to align donor interests with college priorities
• Overseeing annual giving campaigns and producing engagement content
• Preparing briefing documents and supporting donor campus visits
• Participating in professional development and career advancement opportunities
Minimum Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, business, or related field
• 1–3 years of fundraising, donor engagement, or related experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to travel
Preferred Qualifications:
• Demonstrated experience closing gifts or securing business deals of $50,000+
• Strategic trip planning and relationship-building experience
• A collaborative and team-oriented approach
MSU is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. The University actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities. If you’re excited about the role but don’t meet every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. We value transferable skills and diverse perspectives.
Ready to apply?
Submit your resume and cover letter at careers.msu.edu referencing posting number 1031545 by May 8, 2025.
For questions, please contact Patricia Karam, Director of Talent Acquisition, at karampat@msu.edu
For full job description and to apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/6146669