Development Associate

Outreach Works•Scranton, PA

18h•$23 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Development Associate is a growth-oriented position designed for an early-career professional eager to build a comprehensive foundation in nonprofit fundraising and development. Working directly with the CORD Director, this role offers hands-on learning across all areas of development — including grant writing, donor stewardship, business partnership cultivation, event support, and communications — while contributing meaningfully to Outreach's mission from day one. This position provides structured mentorship, progressive responsibility, and professional development opportunities. The ideal candidate brings strong interpersonal skills, excellent writing ability, a willingness to learn, and the initiative to take on new challenges. As skills and confidence grow, the Development Associate will take on increasing levels of responsibility and independence, with opportunities for advancement based on demonstrated growth and performance. Primary responsibilities include supporting the expansion of business partnerships through Pennsylvania's tax credit programs (NAP and EITC); supporting the research, development, writing, and management of grant proposals; assisting with donor stewardship and cultivation activities; and contributing to broader development communications and events. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, excellent writing skills, critical thinking, proactive initiative, and the ability to manage complex tasks independently while maintaining strict confidentiality. This fast-paced role involves managing multiple grant deadlines and development initiatives simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and effective prioritization.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (communications, nonprofit management, social work, public administration, marketing, business, or creative writing) or equivalent combination of education and experience
Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with a willingness to develop grant writing expertise
Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills, including comfort meeting with donors, business leaders, and community stakeholders
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite; willingness to learn additional platforms (WordPress, CRM systems, Google Workspace)
Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and work both independently and collaboratively
Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning and professional growth
Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally as needed
Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information
Successful completion of clearances under PA's Child Protective Services Law

Nice To Haves

Admissions, enrollment, or recruitment roles — experience persuading, presenting, and building relationships
Sales, marketing, or business development — comfort with outreach, prospect cultivation, and meeting goals
Customer service or client-facing roles — strong communication and relationship management skills
Event planning or coordination — organizational and logistical experience
Any experience with writing, content creation, or communications
Familiarity with CRM or database systems (any platform)
Volunteer or internship experience with nonprofit organizations
Interest in or familiarity with family services, workforce development, youth programming, or community-based human services
Experience with social media management, website editing, or digital communications

Responsibilities

Support the identification, cultivation, and expansion of business partnerships for Pennsylvania tax credit programs (NAP and EITC)
Help develop and maintain relationships with workforce development employer partners and Second Chance Employers
Assist in preparing business-focused donor materials, including tax credit program information and organizational impact data
Schedule and conduct face-to-face meetings with business prospects to discuss partnership opportunities
Participate in donor meetings with the President/CEO
Track performance metrics and contribute to regular reports for leadership
Support the CORD Team in diversifying and expanding the donor base
Assist with donor research and prospect identification
Support donor cultivation and stewardship activities, including drafting acknowledgment letters and donor communications
Record donations, acknowledgments, and donor records accurately in CRM system (Bloomerang)
Assist with the development of a major gifts portfolio under the direction of the CORD Director and President/CEO
Learn Outreach's programs, outcomes, and funding landscape to support compelling grant proposals
Research and identify new grant opportunities aligned with Outreach's mission under the guidance of the CORD Director
Assist in developing grant proposals with persuasive program descriptions and appropriate budgets, progressing toward independent grant writing
Work with Program Directors and the Quality Assurance Team to understand and incorporate evaluation metrics
Help maintain the grants calendar to track submission deadlines, reporting requirements, and deliverables
Assist in preparing and submitting timely, accurate reports to current funders
Collaborate with program staff to gather information for proposals and reports
Maintain organized, complete documentation for all grant activities
Support the planning and execution of fundraising events
Assist with development-related communications, including newsletters, solicitation letters, social media content, and other external materials
Learn and gain proficiency with WordPress and social media platforms for organizational communications
Attend external networking events, community functions, and fundraising gatherings to build relationships and represent Outreach
Assist with development-related mailings and campaigns
Attend project meetings with program teams to support fundraising and grant application projects
Participate in staff trainings and organizational meetings
Office attendance is mandatory
Other duties as assigned