Major Gift Officer, Swanson School of Engineering - Military veterans preferred

Major Gift Officer, Swanson School of Engineering

The Division of Philanthropic & Alumni Engagement (PAE) at the University of Pittsburgh is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships with donors, alumni, and stakeholders, supporting the University's mission in education, research, and healthcare. We invite you to become a pivotal part of our team as the Major Gift Officer.

In this role, you will serve as the integral part within PAE's University Development department supporting the Swanson School of Engineering, reporting to the Executive Director of Development.

Key responsibilities include:

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts from current and prospective donors with a capacity of $100,000 or more
• Build and maintain a diverse and sustainable portfolio of major gift prospects within assigned region(s)
• Plan, implement, and manage fundraising strategies and programs in alignment with school and University priorities
• Develop compelling proposals and coordinate gift solicitation efforts across departments
• Collaborate closely with executive leadership, school leadership, and faculty on strategic initiatives and campaign efforts
• Consistently initiate contact with potential major donors and execute tailored cultivation and stewardship strategies
• Craft donor recognition materials and lead the recruitment and coordination of volunteer solicitors
• Meet short- and long-term fundraising goals by developing and executing comprehensive donor engagement strategies
• Represent the University at donor meetings and events; travel at least 30% of the time and participate in occasional evening and weekend activities
• Demonstrate exceptional communication and leadership skills to engage alumni, donors, and internal partners effectively

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in supporting the University's mission.
• Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive, innovative, and dynamic team.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement.
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Ready to make a difference? Learn more about PAE and apply today.

Join us in shaping the future of education, research, and healthcare at the University of Pittsburgh!

Job Summary

Plans, implements, and manages fundraising programs for assigned area of responsibility; develops proposals and coordinates fundraising efforts within the department; and identifies, cultivates, stewards, and solicits current and potential donors. Collaborates with executive leadership, leadership, and faculty on strategic initiatives and campaign management. Crafts major donor recognition collateral and recruits and leads volunteer solicitors.

Essential Functions

• Plans, launches, and oversees fundraising programs within assigned units to support the University’s development goals

• Develops persuasive proposals and coordinates department-level fundraising initiatives

• Collaborates with fellow fundraisers to evaluate donor profiles and implement joint strategies for individuals with diverse philanthropic interests

• Builds and maintains a pipeline of prospective donors; devises personalized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans

• Engages regularly with Deans, department chairs, faculty, and unit leadership to advance strategic fundraising priorities and manage campaign committee efforts

• Drafts content for newsletters, websites, and other publications that acknowledge and recognize major donor

Physical Effort

Light – Work involves minimal physical effort and is mainly sedentary in nature. Occasional lifting or movement of items weighing up to 25 pounds may be required.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Major Gifts Officer III

Job Family: Philanthropy & Engagement

Job Sub Family: Major & Principal Gifts

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 6

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hiring Range: $80,000-$90,000 Annually

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume

Optional Documents: Not Applicable




Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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