Fundraising & Development Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Fundraising and Development SpecialistDEPARTMENT: Administration
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
LOCATION: Taylorsville, CA (Hybrid)
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time POSITION OVERVIEW

Overview Sierra Institute is seeking a skilled and dynamic Fundraising and Development Specialist to join our team. This position will work closely with the Executive Director and program managers to build and maintain meaningful relationships with donors and identify opportunities for expanding the Instituteʼs programmatic work. The primary focus of the role will be on all aspects of the donor development cycle, including identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, acknowledgment, and stewardship of both outright and planned gifts. The position will also collaborate closely with the Sierra Institute Board Members and other key stakeholders to drive fundraising campaigns, manage public relations efforts, and engage in outreach activities. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising plans with clearly defined goals, target audiences, and strategies that align with the organization’s objectives.
• Represent the Sierra Institute by attending events and programs to gain a deeper understanding of the needs of local and rural communities, forests, and watersheds, enabling effective and informed communication about the organization’s mission.
• Oversee a portfolio of donor prospects, ensuring meaningful and strategic engagement to foster cultivation and stewardship.
• Identify and retain donor prospects by conducting analysis of past successful fundraising efforts to inform future strategies.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Board Members, staff, and other stakeholders to identify, engage, and solicit potential donors.
• Prepare funding proposals and supporting materials to advance development initiatives and strategies.
• Support the management of volunteer committees associated with individual giving programs.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support development efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Required Qualifications:

• Passionate about advancing Sierra Institute’s mission to restore forests and watersheds while supporting rural community development through impactful fundraising efforts.
• Skilled in building and maintaining relationships with donors, staff, fundraising volunteers, stakeholders, and community leaders to achieve fundraising goals.
• Proven ability to handle complex donor interactions with tact, confidence, and diplomacy.
• Exceptional writing, organizational, and computer skills tailored to nonprofit fundraising and donor communications.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs and experienced with (or eager to learn) donor database systems such as Salesforce or DonorPerfect.
• Strong oral communication skills for presenting fundraising campaigns and engaging with donors effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to manage timelines, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced nonprofit work environment.
• Available to attend donor events, including mornings, evenings, and weekends, with occasional travel to cultivate and strengthen donor relationships.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, maintaining confidentiality in donor-related matters, and inspiring confidence and motivation in colleagues and donors alike.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

(Describe the work environment, such as fieldwork, office work, or remote options. Include any physical requirements like lifting, standing, or operating machinery.)

SALARY & BENEFITS

Salary is commensurate with experience, with opportunities for advancement. The expected salary range is between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, depending on experience. Sierra Institute provides extensive benefits, including health and dental coverage. The incumbent will also be eligible for paid holiday, vacation, and sick leave consistent with Sierra Instituteʼs organizational policies. 

• Competitive benefits package, including health and dental coverage.
• Retirement plan eligibility after 1 year.
• Paid holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
• Flexible work schedule in a collaborative and supportive team environment.

INCLUSIVE HIRING STATEMENT

At the Sierra Institute for Community and Environment, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We invite all interested parties to apply, including those belonging to Tribal communities, women, people of color (POC), and LGBTQ+ persons. We value diverse perspectives and experiences as they strengthen our mission and impact.