Development Assistant

Our distinctive approach to environmental protection emphasizes a focus on scientific and economic disciplines and on the use of market mechanisms where applicable to reach well-crafted, durable solutions. The organization builds teams of scientists, lawyers, and economists to investigate the scientific causes of environmental problems as well as the market forces and government policies that encourage and subsidize patterns of environmental damage. In the full range of environmental arenas (air, water, climate, soil, toxins, and wildlife), Environmental Defense Fund seeks practical solutions, founded on science, that policy makers and industry can be urged to incorporate into practice, law, or regulation.

 

We are currently seeking a full-time Development Assistant to work in our New York Office. This position description is a guide to the critical duties and essential functions of the job; not necessarily an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, performance expectations, required qualifications or work environment conditions. Descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet changing needs at the discretion of Environmental Defense Fund management.

 

Overall responsibility: The Development Assistant is responsible for supporting 2 major gifts officers as they identify, cultivate and steward a high-end portfolio of donors and prospects. In addition, h/she will provide general clerical and administrative support to the New York Development staff and Development staff as appropriate.  S/he will help ensure that daily operations of the Major Gifts area run smoothly, and external correspondence and internal information are distributed quickly and accurately.

 

Specific Responsibilities:

 Assist with major gift cultivation and solicitations:Write and edit emails, briefing notes, proposals and reports for potential donorsWrite and pull reports from fundraising databases to identify opportunities and help manage portfoliosCreate word processing documents and spreadsheetsProofread correspondence, reports and spreadsheetsCoordinate meetings with donors, executive staff and program staffManage all phases of donor mailings including mail merges, document production and labeling envelopes. Liaison with mail room staff to ensure proper postage and prompt mailing of time sensitive documents

 Maintain the major gift files, records and tracking systems in an orderly, timely fashion:Maintain files as appropriateProcess all letters, maintaining tracking log, copying, mailing and filing

 Perform data entry:Log donor contacts into the donor records systemMaintain database records for each donor in an accurate and timely mannerEnter and track financial forecasts in database

 Arrange bulk mailings, shipments, overnight and messenger service, conference calls.Provide prospect research assistance.Update electronic libraries and documents on department workspace.Provide general administrative support by coordinating travel arrangements, processing expense reports and responding to requests.Complete projects as assigned.Provide logistical assistance for special events.

 Requirements:

 Outstanding communication skills including excellent writing ability.Ability to synthesize complicated information into understandable prose.Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.Excellent interpersonal skills, judgment and donor sensitivity including a high level of comfort dealing with individuals of wealth.Creativity, energy, confidence and integrity.Inherent understanding of databases and the need for accuracy in data entry.Ability to work under frequent time pressures yet remain accurate and upbeat.Intermediate or better proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel & Outlook.Intermediate or better data entry skills. Experience using donor database systems highly desirable.Ability to use standard office equipment.Ability to quickly and accurately proofread documents.Ability to perform a variety of daily duties and projects with consistency and accuracy.Ability to work well with a team on multiple tasks in a high-pressure environment.College degree preferred.

 

Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Interested applicants should forward their cover letter, resume and salary requirements to:

Shelly Smith

Recruiter
Environmental Defense Fund
257 Park Avenue South
17th floor
New York, NY 10010
jobs@edf.org

 

Environmental Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and the physically-challenged are encouraged to apply.