Data Services Specialist

Rice University•Houston, TX

31d•Hybrid

About The Position

Reporting to the Director of Data Services, the Data Services Specialist provides full-time support in updating the Rice alumni/development database, which is the system of record for alumni, donor, and volunteer information. In addition, the Data Services Specialist will provide both routine and general project support for the Data Services team. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks, and has strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as attention to detail, especially regarding data quality.

Requirements

HS diploma or equivalent
2+ years related experience in data entry/management, administrative, or customer service roles
Strong clerical, interpersonal, and basic organizational skills
Good computer skills
Ability to exercise judgment and employ basic reasoning skills
Strong attention to detail

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree or higher
3+ years of related experience in data entry/management and/or in an administrative role with emphasis on both manual and automated data processes
Experience in non-profit/higher-education settings
Strong organizational skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Strong customer service skills
Ability to work with frequent interruptions
Goal-oriented with the ability to prioritize a heavy workload
Willingness to undertake assignments and follow through with minimal supervision
Ability to work with a high level of confidentiality
Additional computer skills: Experience with Blackbaud CRM or other advancement systems
Knowledge of charitable giving best practices, IRS regulations, and industry standards
Proficiency with internet searches to support constituent research
Experience in a PC Windows environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Responsibilities

Accurately enters data from data sheets or charts into a database and/or manual filing system using specific, standard instructions
Determines appropriate action to be taken for duplicate, inaccurate, or unclear information
Maintains computerized and manual logs and files in accordance with established procedures
Assists with data collection when needed
Maintains a variety of complex records; suggests or makes improvements to record-keeping procedures
Performs audits of own work or that of others to ensure conformance with established procedures
Provides administrative support
Performs all other duties as assigned
Processes individual, corporate, and foundation gifts in the alumni/development database system
Generates official gift acknowledgments and receipts for tax purposes for all gifts to the university
Creates and maintains, through manual and automated processes, accurate biographic and demographic information on constituent records in the alumni/development database system
Utilizes research tools to verify constituent information
Maintains documents, both physical and scanned, related to constituents and gifts
Maintains data quality through the use of data integrity audits and application of data rules
Provides routine and general project support for the Data Services team
Acts as a subject matter expert for constituent and gift data
Collaborates with other members of the Data Services team to establish best practices and documentation
Has frequent contact with division staff and other campus partners
Open office environment
Occasional extended hours, including after-hours and/or weekends, as needed
Many hours spent in front of a computer