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Development Communications Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mars

Senior Manager R&D Communications

Chicago, IL · On-site

Define the right channels, cadence and storytelling approach to engage R&D Associates globally. Leadership & Executive Communications Act as the communications partner to the Global R&D VP and R&D ...

Gateway Foundation

Development Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

Location: 315 N Racine Ave Chicago, IL 60607 The Development Associate is responsible for: * Plan ... Work with marketing team on development communications including donor newsletters, employee ...

Alpharus Health

Development Associate

Chicago, IL

Location: 315 N Racine Ave Chicago, IL 60607 The Development Associate is responsible for: * Plan ... Work with marketing team on development communications including donor newsletters, employee ...

Gateway Foundation

Development Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

Location: 315 N Racine Ave Chicago, IL 60607 The Development Associate is responsible for: * Plan ... Work with marketing team on development communications including donor newsletters, employee ...

Primo Center

Chief Development Officer (Chicago)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

Lead and mentor the Development and Communications Associate. * Foster a culture of philanthropy across the organization. Grant Strategy & Compliance * Oversee the preparation and submission of grant ...

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Development Communications Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$59.2K

$85K

How much do development communications associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for development communications associate in Chicago, IL is $59,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a development communications associate?

A Development Communications Associate is a professional who supports fundraising and donor engagement efforts within an organization by creating, editing, and managing communications materials. They often work in nonprofit or educational settings, collaborating with development teams to produce newsletters, grant proposals, social media content, and donor reports. Their goal is to effectively communicate the organization's mission and impact to current and prospective donors, helping to build and maintain strong relationships. This role requires strong writing, editing, and project management skills.

How does a development communications associate typically collaborate with fundraising and program teams?

A Development Communications Associate works closely with both fundraising and program teams to ensure that messaging aligns with organizational goals and donor interests. They often translate complex program outcomes into compelling stories and reports, supporting grant proposals, donor updates, and campaign materials. Regular meetings and open communication with these teams are essential to gather accurate information, stay updated on project milestones, and tailor outreach strategies. This collaboration helps create unified, impactful communications that drive donor engagement and support fundraising objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a development communications associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Communications Associate, you need strong writing, editing, and research skills, often supported by a degree in communications, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management databases, email marketing platforms, and basic graphic design tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite is typically expected. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to craft compelling narratives help you stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively engaging donors, enhancing organizational visibility, and supporting successful fundraising efforts.

What is the difference between Development Communications Associate vs Communications Coordinator?

AspectDevelopment Communications AssociateCommunications Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Communications, Marketing, or related fieldBachelor's in Communications, Public Relations, or related field
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, NGOs, or development agenciesCorporate, nonprofit, or government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageFundraising, donor engagement, and awareness campaignsMedia relations, internal/external communications, event planning
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Development Communications Associate primarily focuses on creating content to support fundraising and donor engagement within nonprofit or development sectors. In contrast, the Communications Coordinator handles broader communication tasks, including media relations and internal messaging across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and skills, their core responsibilities and work environments differ, making this comparison useful for those exploring careers or job opportunities in communications roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development Communications jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Development Communications jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Development Communications Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Development Communications Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Development Communications Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Development Communications Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Development Communications Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Development Communications Associate job openings:

Development Communications Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Communications Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,222 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Strategic Communications Associate

University of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

This position provides professional communications, public information, content development and event support to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs (OVCHA) aimed at strengthening the reputation and identity of UI Health as UIC's academic health enterprise. The Strategic Communications Associate will work closely with the Sr. Director of Communications & Events in the OVCHA to develop, coordinate and execute communications through written, digital presentation, planning, and event materials in support of diverse health enterprise-wide strategic projects and initiatives. Projects may cross multiple functional areas such as education, clinical practice, research, academic operations, fundraising, marketing, community engagement and public information.

 Duties & Responsibilities

  • Identify and craft official correspondence on behalf of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs (including letters of support, stewardship letters, administrative messages, etc.). Work with unit leaders to develop and coordinate communications around new initiatives, upcoming events and other priorities.
  • Research, coordinate, develop and publish communications for public engagements (presentations, remarks, etc.) that support UI Health's mission to educate future generations of healthcare leaders, innovate and discover - all to benefit the health and wellness of our communities. May include extensive research, source approvals, and connection with University leadership to achieve reputational goals. Research, verify and synthesize information to ensure accuracy, consistency and appropriate messaging for public and targeted audiences.
  • Act as an internal communication resource for units within the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs to synthesize, edit and write informational and reputation building messages for unit web pages, engagement communication, and event needs. Develop and edit public-facing information, web content, presentations, informational materials and other communications. Facilitate effective communication within the OVCHA, including preparing updates, memos, emails and other communications for OVCHA employees and units. Develop and disseminate information through appropriate channels, including website, email, presentations and other digital platforms.
  • Work with the OVCHA communication team to establish, maintain, and improve content organizational structure that supports the communications function. Maintain organized communications materials and effective information-sharing processes regarding content, ideas, communication activities, and project developments among team members. Design and implement communications related cross-training plans and rollout strategies.
  • Collaborate with OVCHA and health enterprise partners to support event coordination and logistical needs. Provide support with pre-event planning communications activities, on-site event coordination and post-event strategies. Attend regular meetings, in partnership or as delegated to connect with stakeholders and partners from across the University. Coordinate with others to gather and review information and determine appropriate audiences, messaging and communications channels. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.
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About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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