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Development Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are searching for a Corporate Development Associate to join our team. Position Description We're looking for a highly motivated Corporate Development Associate to join our team and support the ...

We are searching for a Corporate Development Associate to join our team. Position Description We're looking for a highly motivated Corporate Development Associate to join our team and support the ...

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Development Associate information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$52.7K

$79.9K

How much do development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for development associate in California is $52,718.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Associate, you need strong skills in fundraising, donor relations, and written communication, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with donor management databases (such as Raiser's Edge or Salesforce), event planning tools, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and relationship-building skills help you excel in managing multiple tasks and engaging supporters. These abilities are crucial for effectively securing funding, maintaining donor engagement, and supporting the organization's growth.

What are Development Associates?

Development Associates are professionals who support fundraising and donor relations efforts within nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or similar entities. They typically assist with donor communications, grant writing, event planning, database management, and research on prospective donors. Their work helps secure financial contributions and resources necessary for their organization's mission. Development Associates often collaborate closely with development directors and other team members to implement fundraising strategies. The role is an entry- to mid-level position that offers valuable experience for those interested in nonprofit development or philanthropy.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Development Associate in a nonprofit organization?

Development Associates in nonprofit organizations usually support fundraising activities by managing donor databases, assisting with grant writing, preparing fundraising materials, and coordinating donor communications. They often help organize events, maintain accurate records of contributions, and collaborate closely with senior development staff, program teams, and volunteers. This role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to balance multiple projects while meeting deadlines. As a key team member, a Development Associate contributes to building relationships with donors and supporting the organization’s mission.

Which 3 jobs will survive AI?

Development Associates in tech and nonprofit sectors are likely to continue thriving as their roles involve complex problem-solving, relationship management, and strategic planning that AI cannot fully replicate. Jobs requiring emotional intelligence, creativity, and specialized expertise—such as healthcare professionals, educators, and skilled trades—are also expected to persist despite AI advancements.

What Is a Development Associate?

A development associate is responsible for overseeing fundraising activities and recording donations, typically for a nonprofit organization. As a development associate, your job duties include generating donations, meeting with potential donors, and developing effective fundraising campaigns. The minimum qualifications to begin a career as a development associate include a high school diploma, although some employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree in business management or public administration. To succeed in this role, you need to possess strong organizational skills, and it helps to have a passion for helping others. Employers prefer candidates who have prior job experience working on fundraising efforts and marketing campaigns for nonprofit groups.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Development Associates typically do not earn $10,000 a month without relevant experience or advanced skills. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades, but they usually require significant effort, certifications, or licensing. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are in sales, entrepreneurship, or specialized technical fields with experience and proven performance.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Development Associates typically do not earn $2,000 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized freelance consultants, senior executives, or highly experienced professionals in fields like investment banking, management consulting, or certain legal roles. These positions often require extensive expertise, certifications, or a high level of responsibility, and compensation may include bonuses or project-based fees that can reach or exceed this amount on a daily basis.

What does a development associate do?

A development associate supports fundraising and development efforts for organizations by coordinating donor communications, managing fundraising campaigns, and assisting with grant applications. They often use tools like CRM software and require strong organizational and communication skills to help meet fundraising goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Development Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Development Associate job openings:
Development Associate

$23.64 - $24.88/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego: Development Associate
Department: Advancement
Reports to: Chief Advancement Officer
Employee Status: Full-time, Non-exempt
Primary Work Location: Onsite, La Jolla
Pay Range: $23.64 - 24.88 per hour
Apply By: COB, June 27th, 2026
JOB SUMMARY: The Development Associate will provide administrative support related to donor services, membership operations, gift processing, event support, and development administrative functions in an effort to ensure a high level of service for donors and members. The Development Associate will support mission and vision throughout the performance of duties.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for donor and member inquiries, providing timely and professional customer service.
  • Prepare and process gift acknowledgments, tax receipts, and donor correspondence in accordance with established templates, timelines, and stewardship guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate donor recognition records and ensure consistency across communications and materials.
  • Support donor and member communications, including renewals, confirmations, and general inquiries.
  • With Database Manager, ensure accurate constituent records.
  • Execute gift entry, pledge tracking, and payment processing in accordance with established procedures and timelines.
  • Assist with tracking pledges, payments, and outstanding balances.
  • Escalate data discrepancies or gift processing issues.
  • Coordinate fulfillment of membership benefits, including cards, welcome materials, and communications.
  • Assist with tracking membership revenue, retention, and participation.
  • Assist with event logistics, which may include registration tracking, attendance, check-ins, and follow-up.
  • Provide administrative support to frontline fundraisers, including scheduling, meeting preparation, and materials.
  • Prepare donor and meeting briefings as requested.
  • Assist with special projects, including mailings, event preparation, and donor communications.
  • Maintain organized donor files and records.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with key stakeholders in cross-departmental projects and efforts as needed.
  • Work alternate special event shifts, including weekends and/or after regular business hours as needed.
  • Follow policies and procedures to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively interact with diverse audiences, employees, members, Trustees, and donors. Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time-management skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Experience with donor management software is a plus. Bachelor's degree in a related field and two years recent, relevant experience or any equivalent education and experience. Knowledge of contemporary art preferred.
OUR WORK CULTURE: MCASD provides employees with a collaborative work culture where they can combine both their love and support of the arts and work in an enriching and diverse environment while further developing their specific professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.
ABOUT MCASD: It is an exciting time to join MCASD! Our La Jolla campus re-opened in April 2022 after a five-year expansion effort that doubled the building's overall size. We are positioned to be a cultural beacon as the region's foremost forum devoted to the exploration and presentation of the art of our time. Beautifully located on the coast, MCASD provides an unprecedented variety of exhibition spaces and experiences for the community, showcasing an internationally recognized collection and a dynamic schedule of exhibitions and public programs.
BACKGROUND CHECKS AND LICENSING: Professional references, education check, and criminal background check.
EOE STATEMENT: We thrive by supporting and celebrating our diversity as a creative and collaborative team. MCASD prohibits discrimination and harassment against individuals based on race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, reproductive health decisions, medical condition, covered veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.