Development Officer

Kansas State University Foundation • Manhattan, KS

3d • $75,000 - $82,000 • Onsite

About The Position

At the Kansas State University Foundation, we unite purpose-driven work and pioneering strategy to create careers that matter. Put your people skills and drive to work in major gift fundraising, where you help advance engineering education, innovation, and research that prepare the next generation of K-State graduates to develop solutions to society's most complex challenges and shape our increasingly technological world. If you thrive in sales, account management, or similar roles, your strengths directly translate to success in major gift fundraising. Here, you'll leverage those essential client management skills, prospecting, relationship building, presenting proposals, and exceeding goals, to inspire and connect a network of passionate K-State alumni and donors for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, who are invested in advancing cutting-edge research, fostering innovation, supporting future engineering leaders, and creating opportunities for students to gain the hands-on experiences and resources needed to make a lasting impact on the world.

Requirements

• 2+ years of full-time experience in metrics-driven roles, requiring measurable output and a track record of building relationships
• Experience conducting face-to-face meetings, presenting materials, and closing deals—in this case, fostering impactful major gift fundraising partnerships
• Excellent communication, persuasive presentation, and active listening skills
• Drive to meet metrics, self-motivation, and the willingness to work as part of an inspiring and collaborative team

Responsibilities

• Proactively reach out to potential donors through calls and visits, qualifying prospects and cultivating relationships—just like in sales, but with a focus on legacy, not transactions.
• Strategically present and solicit major gifts ($50,000+) through effective major gift fundraising proposals.
• Manage multiple robust client (donor) relationships and regularly travel to meet face-to-face.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop strategies for meaningful major gift fundraising.
• Keep all activity documented and outcomes measurable, recognizing and stewarding donors at every stage.

Benefits

• Competitive health, dental, life insurance, plus voluntary benefits including company paid HSA contributions
• 403(b) retirement plan with 10% company contribution
• Paid leave for holidays, vacation, wellness, personal, parental, and volunteer
• Tuition and certification assistance and a $300 annual reimbursement wellness program
• A work environment that embraces flexibility inside of a framework
• Mission-driven work that changes the lives of people around the world

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed