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Development Director Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Director of Operations

Burlington, WA · On-site

$150.57 - $202.65/hr

Serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team and participate in the development and ... Direct and oversee all operational functions, including fixed route, paratransit, microtransit ...

Executive Director

Burlington, WA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY The Executive Director holds full accountability for overseeing all community ... Lead the development and implementation of all community sales and operations strategies and ...

Showing results 21-40

Development Director information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$42.1K

$96K

$161.1K

How much do development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for development director in Bellingham, WA is $96,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,800.00 and $112,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a development director do?

A Development Director is responsible for overseeing fundraising and resource development efforts within an organization, typically a nonprofit. They create and implement strategies to secure financial support, manage donor relationships, lead fundraising campaigns, and often supervise development staff. Their goal is to ensure the organization has the funding needed to achieve its mission and objectives. Development Directors also work closely with executive leadership and the board of directors to align fundraising goals with the organization's overall strategy.

What does a development director do?

A development director is responsible for fundraising strategies and initiatives to help promote the business and operations of nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and hospitals. As a development director, your job duties include reaching out to potential benefactors, maintaining relationships with existing donors, devising new strategies for fundraising, and organizing fundraising events. These events may consist of benefit concerts, dinners, parties, and special events. Collaborating with company management is also a regular part of your job. Depending on the organization, your exact duties may vary.

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

To thrive as a Development Director, you need expertise in fundraising strategy, donor relations, and nonprofit management, often supported by a relevant degree or CFRE certification. Familiarity with donor management systems (like Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge) and CRM platforms is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for driving organizational growth, securing funding, and building lasting partnerships essential to the nonprofit’s mission.

How does a development director typically collaborate with other departments to achieve organizational goals?

A Development Director frequently works cross-functionally with teams such as marketing, finance, and program management to align fundraising strategies with organizational objectives. This collaboration often involves coordinating on campaigns, sharing donor insights, and ensuring consistent messaging across platforms. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as the Development Director serves as a bridge between departments to maximize impact and foster a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.

What is the difference between Development Director vs Fundraising Manager?

AspectDevelopment DirectorFundraising Manager
Primary FocusOversees overall fundraising strategies, donor relations, and development initiativesExecutes specific fundraising campaigns and manages donor outreach
ResponsibilitiesStrategic planning, team leadership, major gift cultivationEvent planning, donor communication, campaign execution
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Nonprofit Management, Fundraising, or related fields; experience in leadership rolesBachelor’s degree; experience in fundraising or development roles often preferred
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, charities, educational institutionsNonprofit organizations, charities, fundraising agencies

The Development Director typically holds a strategic leadership role, overseeing the entire development department and long-term fundraising goals. In contrast, the Fundraising Manager focuses on executing specific campaigns and managing day-to-day donor activities. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but the Development Director has broader responsibilities and higher-level oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development jobs in Bellingham, WA?

The most popular types of Development jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Development Director jobs in Bellingham, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Development Director jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Development Director jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Development Director job openings in Bellingham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,025 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

$19.75 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

WWAY1
Full-time
Day Shift
JOB SUMMARY:
The Activity Director is responsible for leading, developing, and overseeing a comprehensive activity program that enhances the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive well-being of residents. This role ensures all programming meets regulatory requirements while creating a vibrant, engaging community that promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop, plan, and oversee a robust monthly activity program tailored to resident interests and abilities
  • Lead and mentor Activity Assistants and volunteers to deliver high-quality programming
  • Ensure activities support all levels of care, including skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care
  • Conduct resident assessments and develop individualized activity care plans
  • Maintain accurate documentation of resident participation and progress
  • Coordinate and lead large-scale events, holiday celebrations, and community outings
  • Foster a positive, engaging environment that encourages resident participation and socialization
  • Collaborate with nursing and interdisciplinary teams to support holistic resident care
  • Manage the activity department budget, supplies, and resources
  • Maintain and communicate an up-to-date activity calendar to residents, families, and staff
  • Ensure safety and supervision during all activities and outings
  • Ensure compliance with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines and state regulations
  • Participate in care plan meetings and interdisciplinary team discussions
  • Recruit, train, and manage volunteers and activity staff
  • Incorporate resident and family feedback into program development
  • Support resident admissions by assisting with orientation and engagement planning
  • Partner with community organizations to enhance programming and outreach
  • Support marketing efforts by showcasing resident life and events (as appropriate)
  • Maintain activity records, audits, and survey readiness at all times
  • Other duties as assigned

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, or related field preferred
  • Previous experience in activities, recreation, or senior living required
  • Leadership or supervisory experience preferred
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead a team effectively
  • Activity Director Certification (ADC) or eligibility to obtain
  • Experience in skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care
  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements and survey processes

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:
Benefits of being a Sapphire Health Services employee include, but is not limited to:
  • PTO
  • 401(K)
  • Medical/Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Birthday/Holiday Pay
  • Wellness Fund
  • Uniform Fund
  • Longevity Bonuses
  • Quarterly Vacation Drawing
  • Tuition Reimbursement

HOW TO APPLY:
At Sapphire Health Services we are dedicated to creating a supportive and enriching environment for both our residents and our team members. If you are a passionate healthcare professional looking to make a difference in the lives of residents, we encourage you to apply!
Address: 1712 E. Maplewood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225
WHO WE ARE: Located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Sapphire Woodway in Bellingham, WA is a three story Assisted Living and Independent Living building. With 67 units and the capacity of 80 total residents, Woodway is a huge resource for the local medicaid population. Dedicated to our residents and staff, Sapphire supports on going training, tuition reimbursement, competitive wages and generous incentives to all of our employees.
- OUR MISSION: TO PROMOTE THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE FOR OUR RESIDENTS, STAFF AND COMMUNITIES. WE STRIVE TO TREAT THEM ALL WIT THE GREATEST CONSIDERATION AND RESPECT -