Development Associate

About the AAVSO

Since its inception in 1911, the AAVSO has been at the forefront
of astronomical research. Initially serving as a platform to
aggregate and disseminate data from amateur astronomers, the AAVSO
has evolved into one of the most impactful research organizations
in the world. Despite its humble beginnings, the AAVSO now boasts a
remarkable track record with its data, products, and services
contributing to over 250 peer-reviewed publications per year. This
achievement is particularly noteworthy given the organization’s
modest size.

Summary of Role

In light of its continued growth and influence, the AAVSO is now
seeking a passionate and driven Development Associate to lead its
fundraising activities. The chosen candidate will be tasked with
the crucial mission of articulating AAVSO’s story to the world,
amplifying its message, and securing vital financial support. The
role encompasses a diverse array of responsibilities, 
including planning and executing major fundraising campaigns,
identifying new sources of funding, cultivating relationships with
donors, assisting in the preparation of grant applications,
establishing connections with commercial sponsors, and maintaining
the organization’s member / donor database.

To learn more about the AAVSO visit our website at https://www.aavso.org

This is a term-limited, full-time (35 hour per week) position
that can be fulfilled as in-person, hybrid, or remote work
depending on the employee’s location. Some travel, evening work,
and weekend work is required to support a small number of events
throughout the year.

 

Are you an early career professional with a passion for
storytelling and a commitment to making a difference? If so, we
invite you to join us on this exciting journey. While prior
experience in astronomy is not required, a genuine enthusiasm for
our mission is essential. If you’re ready to seize the opportunity
to build your career while leaving a lasting impact on the future
of astronomy, we encourage you to apply now. Interviews will be
conducted to give you the chance to meet our leadership team and
learn more about our organization firsthand.

 

AAVSO is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and
inclusive environment in service to one another and the diverse
community we represent.

What you will be doing

As the organization’s primary fundraiser, you will be
responsible for a variety of tasks including:

 

Planning and execution of fundraising
events, including our Annual Campaign
Implementing our major giving and
planned giving fundraising strategies.
Improving our fundraising efforts
through analysis of data.
Identifying and cultivating new
funding opportunities.
Fostering positive relationships with
donors and sponsors.
Assisting with grant writing
Maintaining and updating data within
our membership and donor databases
Managing a team of volunteers to
execute our fundraising activities
Other duties as required.

What you need to be successful

Bachelor’s degree in business
management, public relations, or related field.
Five years prior experience in
fundraising or development.
Mastery of the English language with
excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Mastery of Microsoft Office or Google
Workspace Tools.
Mastery of remote collaboration tools
like Zoom, Slack, and similar software.
Familiarity with non-profit CRM
software, donor databases, or other fundraising technologies.

How you can stand out

Experience in fundraising for
science-focused non-profit organizations.
Background in physical or social
sciences.
Federal grant writing
experience.

Ways we reward our employees

During the interview process, our team will provide details of
our benefits. However, a brief summary of our benefits are as
follows:

 

A flexible, 35 hour work week
100% employer paid healthcare
plan
Paid holidays, sick time, and
vacation
401(k) Plan – Employees receive a
total company-paid benefit of 5% of their salary after three months
of employment.
Flexible Spending Account
Educational assistance program
Professional development
opportunities