Development Officer or Associate Director of Development in Engineering

Utah State University•Logan, UT

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The College of Engineering (CoE) at Utah State University is undergoing a period of significant growth and innovation, with plans to expand its academic programs and establish new ones. To support these initiatives, the college is seeking a Development Officer or Associate Director of Development to engage donors and partners. This role is crucial for advancing the college's mission by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift prospects. The position reports to the Senior Director of Development for CoE and will contribute to the advancement team's strategy. The successful candidate will manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects, acting as an ambassador for the College of Engineering. Key responsibilities include building relationships with the Dean, faculty, and university partners to secure private support for strategic priorities. The hiring level (Development Officer or Associate Director of Development) will depend on assigned duties and candidate qualifications.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field plus two years of related experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience (for Development Officer).
Bachelor's degree in a related field plus three years of related experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience (for Associate Director of Development).
Proven ability to engage in complex gift conversations, with a record of closing significant gifts or contracts.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with senior administrators, faculty, and advisory boards.
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Experience leading or mentoring staff and working collaboratively within a team.
Commitment to a respectful environment in donor engagement and workplace culture.
Willingness and ability to travel extensively.

Nice To Haves

Experience with capital campaigns.
Advanced degree.

Responsibilities

Work with the Sr. Director of Development for CoE to set program goals aligned with the College as well as the university fundraising priorities.
Qualify, cultivate, solicit, recognize, and steward donors with the capacity to give $50,000 or more.
Develop and implement customized strategies for each donor/prospect, aligning philanthropic interests with college priorities, including the growth of Computer Science, and the launch of Energy Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and the School of Computing.
Engage corporate partners in supporting research, student opportunities, and innovation initiatives tied to the college’s expansion.
Manage and optimize program resources, including budgets and timelines, to ensure efficient operations.
Serve as an active partner to the Dean and other academic leaders, providing strategic guidance for development activities and engaging advisory councils or campaign committees as appropriate.
Utilize advancement tools to track donor engagement, report progress, and manage donor pipelines.
Build a comprehensive understanding of gift vehicles—including cash, securities, planned gifts, and real property—to develop tailored proposals.
Work closely with Advancement Services data team to request and refine travel and prospect lists that align with campaign goals.
Travel frequently to meet with donors, alumni, and corporate partners; evening and weekend work may be required.
Stay informed on fundraising trends, technologies, and best practices to improve fundraising and college advancement effectiveness.
Work closely with Advancement Services to ensure accurate gift processing and donor acknowledgment.
Collaborate with university advancement colleagues, faculty, and administrators to identify, engage, and solicit major gift prospects.
Represent the College of Engineering at events, alumni gatherings, and other public functions to promote its mission and achievements.