Development Researcher at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Connecticut

Job Description:

Lehigh University

Lehigh University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Lehigh University provides comprehensive benefits including partner benefits.

Unlock Your Potential: Join Lehigh University's Dynamic Development and Alumni Relations Team

Are you a skilled researcher with a passion for driving meaningful impact? Lehigh University is seeking a highly motivated Development Researcher (Position Number: S85940) to join our exceptional team in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR). This is an incredible opportunity to leverage your talents and contribute to the university's fundraising efforts, shaping the future of education and pioneering groundbreaking initiatives.

As a Development Researcher, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing Lehigh University's fundraising success. Your key accountabilities will include:

1. Research and Analysis

• Compile and analyze detailed biographical and asset data on individuals to determine gift capacity, Lehigh affinity and philanthropic giving, and updating the database accordingly. Investigate prospect's financial status, including stock holdings, salary, real property, and community philanthropy. Research history of relationship, contacts, and philanthropy with Lehigh University.
• Identify and access all pertinent reference and library sources, including hard-copy and on-line references, Lehigh University Archives, and local and national libraries. Identify and obtain detailed financial disclosures, including: SEC shareholder filings, IRS 990 filings, proxy statements, corporate annual reports, property records, and corporate and biographical references. Identify and access a variety of proprietary databases and various Internet sites. Using creativity, initiative, and judgment, determine and locate additional sources of prospect information.
• Review, analyze, and synthesize data as it relates to the fundraising strategy. Determine information pertinent to prospect's potential, propensity to give and the solicitation process. Verify facts; resolve discrepancies between various sources. Identify philanthropic patterns, tendencies, and relationships among individuals, and family foundations.
• Using wealth and data analytic screenings, validate/qualify those with the potential to make major gifts. *Provide counsel to gift officers regarding the interpretation of prospect research data.
• Assists in the proactive identification through projects and resource-based identification efforts *Create, vet and maintain news articles on key major gift prospects.
• Adhere to and keep abreast of current best practices in Development Research, including maintaining the confidentiality of donor data and handling all data in a discrete and ethical manner *Assist on special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

2. Prospect Profile and Briefing Development

• Compose and edit written summary and briefing reports on major gift prospects for University senior leadership.
• Collaborate with the gift officer and be a participant in the evolution of the profile writing process.
• Translate complex corporate and asset-based language into easily comprehensible terms.
• Use appropriate and standard grammar, style and content tailored to the audience.

3. Project Management for Key Research Initiatives

• Serve as project manager on projects as assigned by the director of prospect management and research.
• Collaborate with gift officers and DAR partners on the structure, process and deliverables of these projects. Keep key players abreast of project progress and any changes in deliverables.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts, Economics, Social Sciences, Business, a related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience
• One to three years of related work experience in a higher educational institution or non-profit organization
• Advanced online research work within a development office helpful
• Research experience and statistical analysis helpful
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience reading and interpreting financial statements helpful

Lehigh University is a dynamic and inclusive community that values diversity, innovation, and excellence. As an employee, you will enjoy a collaborative and supportive work environment, competitive compensation and benefits, and numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. Join a team that is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of students, faculty, and the broader community. If you are passionate about higher education, possess exceptional research and analytical skills, and thrive in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Be part of a team that is shaping the future and making a tangible impact on the lives of countless individuals. This position is a Grade: 8 - 40, offering an approximate salary of $46,180-$55,420.

This position may be eligible for a fully remote work arrangement pending University approval; remote work opportunities for non contract positions are only offered within the United States. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.

The Lehigh community takes seriously our commitment to antiracism and The Principles of our Equitable Community.

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.

Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety. Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.

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