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Assistant Prospect Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... * Assist with the development of training curriculum and materials for the Advancement Team related to prospect research policies, procedures, systems, and applications. * Safeguard the ...

The Senior Prospect Research Strategist is responsible for partnering with large, complex and high ... * Assist in the definition and development of user documentation standards and policy and ...

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Assistant Prospect Researcher information

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$29K

$117.6K

$227.5K

How much do assistant prospect researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant prospect researcher in the United States is $117,556.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $169,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Assistant Prospect Researcher typically collaborate with fundraising teams to support donor outreach efforts?

An Assistant Prospect Researcher works closely with fundraising and development teams to provide valuable insights on potential donors. They gather and analyze data to create detailed profiles, which help fundraisers tailor their outreach strategies and prioritize leads. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as researchers often attend planning meetings and respond to information requests, ensuring their findings directly enhance fundraising campaigns. This collaborative approach helps maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of donor engagement efforts.

How much do prospect researchers make?

Prospect researchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and organization size. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and advanced research tools. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those in larger organizations can earn higher wages.

What does a prospect researcher do?

A prospect researcher identifies and evaluates potential donors or clients by gathering information from public records, databases, and online sources. They analyze data to determine giving capacity, interests, and connections, supporting fundraising or sales strategies. Strong research skills and familiarity with research tools are essential for this role.

Are research assistant jobs in demand?

Research assistant jobs are generally in demand across various fields such as academia, healthcare, and market research, especially for candidates with strong analytical skills and familiarity with data analysis tools. The demand can vary based on industry growth and funding availability, with many positions requiring a bachelor's or master's degree and experience with research methodologies.

What does an Assistant Prospect Researcher do?

An Assistant Prospect Researcher supports fundraising efforts by researching and identifying potential donors for nonprofit organizations or educational institutions. Their duties typically include gathering and analyzing data on individuals, corporations, and foundations to assess their giving capacity and philanthropic interests. They help maintain databases, prepare profiles and reports, and ensure information is accurate and up to date. By providing this valuable information, they assist development teams in making informed decisions and building effective fundraising strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Prospect Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Prospect Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor’s degree—often in fields like library science, business, or communications. Familiarity with prospect research databases (such as WealthEngine or iWave), CRM systems, and proficiency in Excel are commonly required. Excellent written communication, discretion, and investigative curiosity are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for accurately identifying donor prospects, supporting fundraising strategy, and maintaining data integrity in nonprofit organizations.

What is the difference between Assistant Prospect Researcher vs Prospect Researcher?

AspectAssistant Prospect ResearcherProspect Researcher
CredentialsBachelor's degree often requiredBachelor's or higher, sometimes specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentSupportive team, entry-level tasksIndependent research, senior responsibilities
Employer UsageNonprofits, educational institutions, fundraising teamsFundraising departments, development offices
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level rolesClarifying advanced responsibilities

The Assistant Prospect Researcher typically performs entry-level research tasks under supervision, focusing on gathering basic information about prospects. The Prospect Researcher handles more complex research, analysis, and strategic recommendations. The roles differ mainly in experience level and scope of responsibilities, with the Assistant supporting and the Prospect conducting independent research.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

To be an assistant prospect researcher, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, marketing, or social sciences. Strong research skills, proficiency with databases and data analysis tools, and attention to detail are important qualifications for this role.
More about Assistant Prospect Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Prospect Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Prospect Researcher job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prospect Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Prospect Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Prospect Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Prospect Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Prospect Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,556 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Prospect Researcher

Cranbrook

Bloomfield, MI • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Prospect Researcher
Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook Educational Community is one of the world's leading centers of education, science, and art. Comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and Research, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and more than 1,600 students attending our Pre-K through 12 independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors and students to its campus each year. Critics have called Cranbrook "the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America" and in 1989 it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The campus is located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, about 20 miles north of downtown Detroit. For more, please visit our website: www.cranbrook.edu.
Reporting to the Director of Advancement Operations and Gift Planning, the Prospect Researcher will support Cranbrook Educational Community's (CEC) Advancement Team by providing detailed research and data that will inform donor outreach and strategic plans to further fundraising goals related to charitable and sponsorship revenues from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. They will also provide assistance with the portfolio assignment and review process with the goal of advising CEC fundraisers on the optimization of their portfolios and the achievement of their fundraising goals.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive and effective prospect research system, including management of research tools and processes.
  • Train, as needed, on the use of research tools, collection, and recording of information to ensure data integrity, database proficiency, and consistency and support a high level of confidence in resulting profiles, ratings, and reports.
  • Assist with the development of training curriculum and materials for the Advancement Team related to prospect research policies, procedures, systems, and applications.
  • Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information and adhere to the ethical and confidentiality guidelines of both the CEC and APRA.
  • All other responsibilities and tasks assigned by the Director of Advancement Operations and Gift Planning.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree required, preferably in a related field, such as Journalism, History, English, Business, or Library Science.
  • A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in prospect and donor research.
  • Comprehensive understanding of the tools utilized, and the fundamentals involved with fundraising research.
  • Experience with DonorSearch and Blackbaud products, specifically RENXT and Research Point, preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills, high-level organizational and computer skills.
  • Comprehensive understanding of the tools utilized, and the fundamentals involved with fundraising research.
  • Ability to produce concise research documents with attention to accuracy and detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to multitask and manage deadlines.
  • Experience with web platforms will be favorably considered.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in a higher-education or major cultural institution setting.
  • Experience working in a comprehensive fundraising campaign.
  • Familiarity with financial information, including proxy statements, annual reports, SEC documents and stock holdings.

This is a full-time position with a salary of $62k+ based on experience.
Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and benefits that include medical, dental, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and retirement programs with employer contribution. We also offer generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays, employee discounts, and a unique environment in an educational setting that values collaboration.
For consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.