Donor Prospect Research Specialist; Professional

Donor Prospect Research Specialist (Advancement Professional I)

Job No: 559014

Work Type:
Staff

Location:

Fullerton

Categories:
Unit 9 - CSUEU
- Technical Support Services, Administrative, Temporary, Full Time

Salary Range: $4,799 - $4,895 per month (anticipated)

Work Schedule:

Monday
- Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; occasional early morning, evening and/or weekend hours. Temporary position to end on or before June 30, 2027, with possibility of renewal on an annual basis if funds and/or program needs exist.

Under the general direction of the Director of Prospect Management and Strategy, the Donor Prospect Research Specialist supports University Advancement by conducting research, analysis, and reporting on individuals, corporations, and foundations to inform fundraising strategies and enhance donor engagement. This position focuses on analyzing existing constituent data to identify new prospects, preparing research on assigned prospects, and supporting strategic fundraising initiatives, including campus-wide comprehensive or capital campaigns.

The Donor Prospect Research Specialist collaborates closely with Advancement leadership and the Development team to ensure fundraisers are equipped with accurate, actionable, and timely information. This role requires skills in research and data analysis to help build and maintain strong prospect pools and to guide data‑driven fundraising strategies. The position is also responsible for prospect portfolio distribution and other prospect report distribution to University Advancement staff.

Responsibilities include gathering, compiling, and analyzing prospect research data, assisting in the coordination of prospect identification, donor prospect reporting and analysis, general office coordination, travel and procurement card tracking, and other duties as assigned.

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field (or education and experience equivalent on a year‑for‑year basis). Under direct supervision, performs entry‑level technical and professional work within the advancement field including gathering and analyzing data; producing reports; assisting in advancement activities; representing the university and ensuring compliance with terms and conditions and applicable regulations and laws. Performs less complex assignments following detailed and established procedures.
  
  Work is regularly reviewed for understanding of professional concepts and compliance with policies and procedures.
• General professional knowledge of advancement and fundraising tactics.
• Demonstrated communications and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders and potential donors.
• Ability to follow guidelines and provide input and feedback; ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a donor‑ and stakeholder‑service oriented approach.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Analytical and math skills to complete research and reconcile financial accounts.
• Organizational skills to plan, organize, and prioritize work.
• Ability to use technology and relevant software packages.
• A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment.

• Experience with research and the ability to perform data analysis, as well as experience using Research Point, Lexis Nexis, and Wealth Engine.
• Work experience in nonprofit or public organizations that receive donated funds, with an understanding of how those funds are solicited, allocated, and used.
• Knowledge of creating both general and detailed research biographical profiles, and ability to maintain files, records, and confidentiality of prospect information and development records.
• Experience with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT and RE software, along with familiarity with engagement scoring, machine learning approaches to donor modeling, or network analysis.
• Must be able to work annual commencement ceremonies.

• An array of health plans that include prescription drug coverage
• Dental and Vision coverage
• Income protection…