Principal Gifts Officer

Staff Career • San Diego, CA

4d • $125,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Working with a team of seasoned fundraisers, the Principal Gift Officer (PGO) will be responsible for a portfolio of approximately 150 rated and researched prospects and donors. Approximately 75-100 names will be initially assigned, with the expectation that future growth will come through PGO identification in coordination with Salk Stewardship & Research, as well as the networking efforts of the PGO. The PGO will independently move all prospects through a documented moves management process, focused on deepening the engagement and knowledge of the prospects around Salk science. The PGO will also participate in prospect identification through participation in internal and external events, widening the overall prospect pool. The PGO will work collaboratively with other members of Advancement to support compelling in-person programming, both on and off-campus, encourage attendance of their managed prospects, and deliver other creative methods of engagement. Applicants are encouraged to explore the Salk Discovery Society by visiting https://www.salk.edu/discovery-society/ Who We Are The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research. Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members , the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (BA) from a four-year college or university or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of eight to ten years of experience in fundraising, project management, development operations, or related fields.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage complex projects, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and meet deadlines.
• Strong strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with scientists, executives, and colleagues across the Institute.
• Experience supporting fundraising teams, donor portfolios, or philanthropic initiatives.
• Knowledge of annual giving, leadership giving, or major gift fundraising practices.
• Familiarity with moves-management principles and donor pipeline strategy.
• Ability to analyze donor data and translate insights into actionable engagement strategies.
• Computer skills required: Development Software; Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

• Preference for some background in science-related efforts.

Responsibilities

• Develop and steward a portfolio of high-capacity prospects, strengthening the pipeline for principal-level philanthropy.
• Document all qualifications, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities with accuracy and strategic clarity in the CRM.
• Collaborate with the Advancement team to design and support high-impact donor programming, both on and off campus.
• Coordinate closely with internal partners to ensure seamless, high-quality cultivation and stewardship for top prospects.
• Monitor and report on progress toward fundraising goals, offering insights that inform strategic decision-making.
• Build and sustain meaningful relationships with donors and prospects, deepening engagement and long-term commitment.
• Represent the Institute with professionalism and poise, engaging donors, volunteers, and community partners effectively.
• Utilize CRM systems and internal communication tools to manage donor and prospect information.
• Stay current on best practices in gift fundraising, applying emerging insights to elevate results.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Salk Institute offers competitive benefits , including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level