Development Specialist - AD

Position Details

Job Title:

Fundraising Development Specialist

Location:

River House - NARA NW Administration Building - 211 SE Caruthers St, Portland OR, 97214

Schedule:

In-person, Monday through Friday, 8:00am‑4:30pm
Hourly Rate: $26.20‑$30.25 (Non‑Exempt)

The Development Specialist plays a key role in advancing the organization’s fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and development operations. This position partners closely with the Director and Development leadership to execute fundraising initiatives, strengthen donor relationships, and ensure accurate and efficient development systems. The specialist will also contribute to community engagement and event execution to grow and sustain donor support.

• Assist in the development and implementation of fundraising campaigns, donor outreach strategies, and special projects.
• Support the organization’s annual fundraising plan and philanthropic initiatives in partnership with the Director and Chief Development Officer.
• Help cultivate and steward donor relationships through personalized outreach, follow‑up, and engagement activities.
• Draft and edit donor communications, including proposals, reports, acknowledgments, and stewardship materials.
• Support grant writing efforts, including proposal development and reporting.
• Maintain and manage donor databases and CRM systems, ensuring accurate and up‑to‑date records.
• Assist in planning and executing fundraising events, sponsor ships, and campaigns.
• Participate in the NARA NW Events Planning Committee and support event logistics.
• Partner with program, finance, marketing, communications, and web teams to gather data, budgets, and metrics.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least one (1) year of experience in grant development and/or fundraising; or a combination of relevant higher education and two (2) years of related experience.
• Experience supporting fundraising, grant writing, or donor development activities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel/spreadsheets) and experience working with CRM or donor database systems.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and research skills, including the ability to gather and synthesize information for reports and proposals.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and pre‑employment drug screening.

• Experience working with Native American communities and/or Tribal organizations.
• Demonstrated experience in technical writing, grant reporting, or donor communications.
• Familiarity with nonprofit fundraising practices, donor stewardship, and community engagement.

• 15 Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (Kaiser Permanente)
• 13 Paid Sick Days
• 13 Paid days of PTO (annual accrual increases with service up to 26 days)
• $50,000 Life Insurance & AD&D
• Short Term and Long Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Spending Account
• 401(k) with 4% Match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Inclement Weather Days (Snow Days)
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (FQHC)

NARA NW is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Preference in hiring is given to qualified Native Americans in accordance with the Indian Preference Act. Within the scope of Indian Preference, all candidates will receive equal consideration.