Development Communications Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Summary of Major Responsibilities

The Development Associate supports the Development department by managing the logistics of all Development-driven events, including Theater Lover’s Bash, our annual fundraising event; Opening Night donor receptions; our annual Donor Appreciation event, and more. The Development Associate will successfully accomplish this by fostering meaningful and collaborative relationships with relevant cross-departmental staff members. These departments include, but are not limited to: Development, Operations, Events & Rentals, and Production. Working closely with the Director of Advancement & Special Projects, the Development Associate will also support creating clear goals and event strategy to ensure success. Routine duties include: representing the Development Department at the institution’s weekly calendar meeting, consistent communications across departments, working with contracted entertainment and caterers, sending event invitations, managing RSVPs and more. This position works an average of 30 hours per week and reports to the Director of Advancement & Special Projects. It requires confidentiality and maintaining high standards of excellence in all external communications and relationships. 

Specific Responsibilities

• 90% of time working collaboratively on fundraising event strategy and independently managing event logistics for Theater Lover’s Bash, the 20th Anniversary Gala, and the VIP component of Benefit Performances, as well as planning and executing all routine Development cultivation and stewardship activity such as: Donor Opening Night Receptions, annual Donor Appreciation Event, Annual Donor Season Preview, and miscellaneous other cultivation events
  • Under direction from the Director of Advancement & Special Projects, work to create clear goals and strategy for each event 
  • Serve as the primary bridge between the Development Department and the organization’s general Events Manager
  • Recruit and train volunteers as needed
  • Create set-up documentation for Operations and Production collaborators
  • Collaborate closely with the Production Manager regarding all production elements of the event (i.e. A/V needs, timing of the program, etc.)
  • Work collaboratively with all relevant departments, ensuring ongoing communication and cross-departmental buy-in on all event elements 
  • Work with marketing to develop event collateral, including invitations, signage, and video.
  • Monitor event RSVPs 
  • Serve as the “day-of” on-site point person  

• 10% of time managing donor stewardship tactics and details, such as seat notes for all performances, special thank you notes, etc.
  • Garnering support from Devo Team, Board, and other staff members, facilitate writing seat notes for each production
  • Facilitate writing thank you notes for all uniquely special gifts (i.e. substantial increase, 2nd gift in a short span of time, etc.)
  • Manage sending gifts, as needed, for noteworthy contributions, condolences, and other important occasions

Qualifications

• One to two years of experience, or combination of education and experience, in a development support role or similar administrative capacity
• Experience managing event logistics preferred.
• Interest in and/or theater background is a plus
• Experience collaborating within a team and the ability to cultivate working relationships across departments and with board members, staff, donors, volunteers, and the general public.
• Commitment to professional ethics in working with highly confidential, sensitive information.
• Ability to identify needs for prioritization and multitasking as necessary or requested.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to lead multiple long and short-term projects independently.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word) and experience working with customer relationship management systems (CRMs). Tessitura experience preferred.
• All employees are expected to model and support IDEA values by demonstrating inclusive behavior and creating an environment of belonging

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• The work environment is in an office, with some WFH flexibility. 
• The work hours are daytime with occasional evenings or weekends as necessary.

Salary & Benefits

• $25/hour
• 30 hours/week, hourly, non-exempt
• Medical benefits, including health, dental and vision available 1st day of month following hire
• Generous paid time off policy
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match 
• Complimentary tickets to all PCS productions

Apply:

• Submit cover letter and resume at pcs.org/jobs
• For accommodations in the application process, please email hr@pcs.org.

This position will remain open until filled. For best consideration, apply by July 21, 2026.

Portland Center Stage is committed to advancing equity and diversity in all that we do. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Portland Center Stage does not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to age, marital status, sexual orientation, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or disability. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, veterans, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Successful candidates will commit to an equitable and inclusive workplace, including but not limited to: racial equity, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, use of gender inclusive language, and cultural sensitivity. Learn more about our commitment and expectations at https://www.pcs.org/idea.