Development Assistant (Philanthropy Services Floater)

Santa Clara University • Santa Clara, CA

1d • $25 - $30 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Development Assistant (Philanthropy Services Floater) provides entry-level administrative and operational support across multiple functional areas within the University’s philanthropy and advancement operations. This part-time/fixed-term role serves as a flexible, cross-trained team member who supports gift processing, donor relations, data and records management, and general administrative functions. The position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual seeking broad exposure to higher education fundraising operations while supporting the University’s mission and philanthropic goals.

Requirements

• Willing to learn fundraising and donor relations concepts and principles.
• Knowledge and experience using technology to enhance communications as well as operational efficiencies in the office.
• Experience in supervising student workers and/or clerical staff.
• Learn campus operations, rules, and regulations.
• Experience providing exemplary customer service to internal and external clients.
• Excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
• Must be both an independent thinker and a team player.
• Demonstrated budget and analytical skills.
• Must have strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Expert planning, coordinating, and organizational skills.
• Must be a goal-oriented and exceedingly well-organized individual who can demonstrate accountability, initiative, creativity, and focus in a rapidly changing and intellectually stimulating environment.
• Excellent time management, multitasking, and prioritization skills.
• Excellent computer skills; proficiency in using Microsoft Office suite - word processing, Excel spreadsheets, database, and web resources.
• Dependable, responsible, and self-motivated.
• As the first point of contact for University Relations, the Customer Support Specialist must exhibit professionalism and cordiality, whether in person or on the phone.
• Demonstrated ability to establish credibility with broad and diverse constituencies within a complex organization based upon integrity, critical thinking, outstanding operational performance, customer service orientation, and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated sound judgment in situations requiring independent decision-making and in handling confidential and sensitive material.
• Able to manage numerous projects simultaneously, to multitask, and achieve goals in a deadline-driven environment.
• Work style that is thorough, accurate, and detail-oriented; the ability to follow through on assignments and projects.
• Able to work well autonomously and as part of a team.
• Punctual and reliable attendance.
• Bachelor’s degree or progress toward a degree in a related field (e.g., communications, nonprofit management, business, or liberal arts).
• A minimum of two years of experience in administrative support.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Proficiency with basic office software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, or Google Workspace).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities in a collaborative environment.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of the SCU campus and campus community is a plus.
• Understanding and appreciation of the mission of Santa Clara University and the vision and values of a Jesuit Catholic educational institution.
• Interest in higher education, philanthropy, nonprofit administration, or advancement services.
• Experience with data entry, customer service, or administrative support in an office setting.
• Familiarity with CRM or donor database systems (e.g., Banner, Advance, Salesforce, Raiser's Edge) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Gift Processing Support Assist with the processing of charitable gifts, including data entry, documentation, and preparation of materials in accordance with University policies and gift acceptance guidelines.
• Support the timely and accurate acknowledgment of gifts by assisting with receipts, donor correspondence, and related records.
• Help maintain gift records and supporting documentation to ensure compliance, accuracy, and audit readiness.
• Donor Relations Support Provide administrative support for donor relations activities, including assistance with donor correspondence, stewardship materials, and event logistics.
• Support the coordination of donor communications and recognition efforts.
• Assist with donor records and tracking stewardship activities in the donor database.
• Data & Records Management Enter, update, and maintain constituent, gift, and engagement data in databases or spreadsheets with a high level of accuracy and confidentiality.
• Assist with data cleanup, record updates, and routine audits to support data integrity.
• Maintain electronic and paper files, including filing, scanning, and archiving documents in accordance with records management standards.
• General Administrative & Shared Services Support Provide general administrative assistance to philanthropy teams as assigned, including scheduling, calendar support, meeting preparation, and correspondence.
• Serve as a floater across advancement units to provide coverage during peak periods, staff absences, or special projects.
• Assist with office operations, including ordering supplies, coordinating with vendors, and supporting basic facilities or administrative requests.
• Support special projects, events, and initiatives as needed.
• Customer Service & Professional Communication Serve as a professional point of contact for internal colleagues and external constituents, including donors and volunteers.
• Communicate clearly, courteously, and professionally in person, by phone, and in writing.
• Additional Responsibilities Perform other related duties as assigned to support the goals of the philanthropy and advancement operations.

Benefits

• Santa Clara University offers a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees with programs and resources designed to promote and sustain personal health care, well-being, and the financial objectives of our employees and families.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees