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Development Assistant-Intermediate Support (Development Assistant)

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Development Assistant provides various support to Major Gift Officers, Directors of Development, and other development staff in support of the overall development and alumni related functions. This position engages in prospect and project management, collects and compiles data, provides administrative support, serves as the liaison between the unit and central DDAR, and assists in identifying and cultivating potential donors.

  • Work collaboratively with the head of the assigned unit, development staff, committee volunteers, etc. to maximize fund raising efforts and success
  • Prepare, provide, and review various reports for Major Gift Officers and Directors of Development; support donor tracking and participation and ensure database record management
  • Provide assistance in the development of prospect strategies
  • Respond to requests for information as needed
  • Support annual fund-raising goals and functions of the unit; assist with annual planning
  • Provide administrative support for the travel of development staff; ensure staff have necessary pre-travel materials and post-travel follow-ups
  • Assist with outreach and special events
  • Assist with annual giving campaign
  • Create and prepare data and reports
  • May develop and distribute development marketing and promotional materials such as newsletters
  • Participate in the management of portfolios of major gift prospects; input updates and maintain donor records
  • Perform other administrative tasks such as updating and maintaining schedules and calendars and ERS travel reports for traveling staff.

This position requires a High School Diploma or higher plus 2 years related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.  We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

$38,300.00 - $55,500.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure. 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Affirmative Action

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

University Park, PA

Average salary estimate

$46900 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$38300K
$55500K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Development Assistant-Intermediate Support (Development Assistant), PSU

At Penn State University Park, we're excited to announce the opening for a Development Assistant-Intermediate Support to join our dynamic team! In this role, you'll provide essential support to Major Gift Officers, Directors of Development, and the entire development staff, all aimed at enhancing our fundraising initiatives and engaging with our alumni. Your day-to-day will be filled with diverse responsibilities ranging from prospect and project management, to compiling and analyzing data, and providing much-needed administrative support. You’ll serve as the crucial liaison between the unit and our central Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR) group, helping to cultivate relationships with potential donors. Working collaboratively with various stakeholders, you'll maximize fundraising efforts while preparing detailed reports, assisting in strategy development, and supporting outreach and special events. If you're organized, detail-oriented, and possess a strong sense of teamwork, this is the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful impact at the university. A high school diploma and two years of relevant experience is required, but don't worry if you think your skills might fit—apply anyway! Join us in promoting a culture of belonging, equity, and respect at Penn State. We're looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager to float ideas that enhance our fundraising campaigns. Let's make a difference together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Development Assistant-Intermediate Support (Development Assistant) Role at PSU
What are the key responsibilities of a Development Assistant-Intermediate Support at Penn State University?

As a Development Assistant-Intermediate Support at Penn State University, you will play an essential role in assisting Major Gift Officers and Directors of Development with various tasks. Your responsibilities will include managing prospect and project data, preparing detailed reports, supporting donor tracking efforts, and assisting in the development of fundraising strategies. You'll also provide administrative support, liaise with different departments, and help organize outreach and special events to foster alumni engagement.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Development Assistant position at Penn State?

To be eligible for the Development Assistant-Intermediate Support position at Penn State University, you should have a high school diploma or higher, along with two years of related experience, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates your capability for the role. Bringing strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills will further enhance your application as you'll be working closely with various stakeholders.

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What is the salary range for the Development Assistant position at Penn State?

The salary range for the Development Assistant-Intermediate Support at Penn State University falls between $38,300 and $55,500. This range reflects various grade levels based on experience and departmental needs. Penn State University is committed to equitable compensation, providing employees with fair salaries that recognize their valuable contributions.

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How does the Development Assistant role support Penn State's fundraising goals?

The Development Assistant-Intermediate Support role is pivotal in supporting Penn State's fundraising goals by helping to manage donor relations efficiently. This position collaborates with Major Gift Officers and Directors of Development to track donor participation and maintain accurate databases, ensuring that all fundraising efforts are well-coordinated and effective. Your assistance in crafting strategies and preparing reports will directly impact the university's ability to meet its annual fundraising objectives.

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What type of work environment can a Development Assistant expect at Penn State University Park?

A Development Assistant-Intermediate Support at Penn State University Park can expect a collaborative, engaging work environment. You'll be surrounded by a team that values equity, respect, and inclusion. The culture encourages creativity and proactive involvement in fundraising initiatives, making it an excellent opportunity to grow professionally while contributing significantly to the university’s mission of fostering strong alumni relations.

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Common Interview Questions for Development Assistant-Intermediate Support (Development Assistant)
Can you describe your previous experience with data management and how it relates to the Development Assistant role?

In answering this question, focus on specific examples from past roles where data management was key to your success. Highlight your familiarity with database systems and your ability to analyze and present data to support fundraising efforts, which is a crucial function of the Development Assistant position at Penn State.

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How would you organize and prioritize tasks when supporting multiple projects as a Development Assistant?

Discussing your organizational strategies is key here. Mention methods you’ve used to keep track of deadlines, such as to-do lists or digital tools, and explain how you would adjust priorities as necessary while remaining responsive to urgent requests, keeping in mind the fluid nature of support roles.

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What do you think is the most important quality for a Development Assistant at Penn State?

Here, you might mention qualities like teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication. Explain why these traits are essential for successfully collaborating with Major Gift Officers and other team members, as supporting fundraising efforts often requires coordination and a collective approach.

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Describe a time you helped organize an event or outreach effort. What was your role?

In your response, share a specific example that illustrates your organizational skills. Detail your responsibilities, how you coordinated with others, and what the outcome was, making sure to show how this experience will translate to supporting outreach and special events as a Development Assistant.

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How do you ensure accurate record keeping when managing donor information?

It's important to detail your approach to maintaining accurate records, including data entry processes and how you verify information before entering it. Emphasize your understanding of the importance of precision in donor databases and mention any relevant systems you've used.

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What strategies would you use to develop prospect strategies for fundraising?

Here, you may want to highlight your research skills and ability to analyze donor data. Discuss any frameworks you've used in the past to identify and qualify prospects, and how you would apply these strategies within the Penn State context to enhance fundraising efforts.

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How would you handle a difficult situation when working with team members or volunteers?

Your answer should demonstrate your conflict resolution skills. Provide an example of a past experience where you managed a tense situation effectively, focusing on communication and finding common ground, which is vital when collaborating in a development environment.

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In what ways do you think alumni relations contribute to successful fundraising initiatives?

Discuss the importance of fostering strong relationships with alumni. Reflect on how keeping alumni engaged through various outreach efforts can lead to future donations, and emphasize your enthusiasm for connecting with alumni as a Development Assistant.

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Why are you interested in the Development Assistant position at Penn State?

This is a great opportunity to connect your values with the university's mission. Speak to your passion for education, community building, or specific initiatives at Penn State that resonate with you. This personal connection can make a strong impression.

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What will you do to support diversity and inclusion in your role as a Development Assistant?

Express your understanding of the importance of equity and belonging within the development process. Mention specific strategies you'd implement to ensure that diverse voices are heard and included, fostering a sense of community among donors and alumni alike.

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FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
HQ LOCATION
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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 27, 2025

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