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Development Specialist Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

pcg

Curriculum Development Specialist

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$59K - $80K/yr

PCG is seeking an experienced Curriculum Development Specialist for its Corporate Strategic Development operations based in Lenexa, Kansas. Curriculum Specialists are part of a team that shapes and ...

pcg

Curriculum Development Specialist

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$59K - $80K/yr

PCG is seeking an experienced Curriculum Development Specialist for its Corporate Strategic Development operations based in Lenexa, Kansas. Curriculum Specialists are part of a team that shapes and ...

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Development Specialist information

See Kansas salary details

$28.5K

$48K

$69.6K

How much do development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for development specialist in Kansas is $48,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,100.00 and $55,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Development Specialist vs Program Coordinator?

AspectDevelopment SpecialistProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in related field, certifications in fundraising or development often preferredBachelor's degree, experience in program management beneficial
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, educational institutions, corporate CSR departmentsNonprofits, government agencies, community organizations
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on fundraising, donor relations, and development strategiesFocuses on coordinating program activities, logistics, and stakeholder communication

While both roles support organizational goals, a Development Specialist primarily focuses on fundraising and donor engagement, whereas a Program Coordinator manages the day-to-day operations of specific programs. Understanding these differences helps organizations hire the right candidate for their needs.

What is a development specialist?

Development Specialists are professionals who help organizations grow by designing, implementing, and managing programs related to fundraising, donor relations, and resource development. They often work for nonprofits, educational institutions, or community organizations, focusing on securing financial support and building relationships with donors and stakeholders. Their duties may include grant writing, event planning, and coordinating fundraising campaigns. Development Specialists play a critical role in ensuring their organization has the resources needed to fulfill its mission.

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

To thrive as a Development Specialist, you need strong skills in fundraising, grant writing, relationship management, and data analysis, typically backed by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with donor management software like Raiser’s Edge or Salesforce, and knowledge of fundraising platforms and compliance requirements, are highly valuable. Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and collaboration skills help build lasting partnerships and drive resource growth. These abilities are crucial for securing funding, meeting organizational goals, and sustaining long-term donor engagement.

How does a development specialist typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Development Specialist often works closely with departments such as marketing, communications, finance, and program management to design and implement effective fundraising strategies. This collaboration ensures that grant proposals, donor communications, and fundraising events align with the organization's goals and branding. Regular meetings and cross-functional project teams are common, allowing Development Specialists to gather input, share progress, and refine approaches based on feedback from various stakeholders. This collaborative environment helps maximize fundraising success and ensures organizational cohesion.

What degree do you need to be a development specialist?

A development specialist typically needs a bachelor's degree in fields such as social sciences, public administration, nonprofit management, or related areas. Some roles may require a master's degree or specialized certifications, along with skills in project management and communication.
What are the most commonly searched types of Development Specialist jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Development Specialist jobs in Kansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Development Specialist jobs in Kansas? For Development Specialist jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Development Specialist jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Development Specialist jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Development Specialist jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Development Specialist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Development Specialist jobs in KS? For Development Specialist jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Specialist job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,010 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Development Specialist

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS

$34K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Pittsburg State University rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

582nd of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Pittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Development Specialist in the department of Advancement Services that is responsible for serving as a critical contributor to the accurate and timely processing of philanthropic gifts, asset monitoring, and donor stewardship activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

Gift Processing and Data Entry - 50% 

  • Accurately processes and records charitable donations, pledges, matching gifts, and non-cash gifts in the Foundation's database 
  • Confirms proper allocation of funds based on donor intent 
  • Prepares and issues acknowledgment letters, gift receipts, and tax documentation within established timeframes 
  • Maintains up-to-date and accurate constituent records in the donor management system 

Compliance and Data Quality - 25%  

  • Ensures all processed gifts comply with IRS charitable contribution rules, PCI compliance, and internal audit standards 
  • Reviews supporting documentation to verify compliance with gift acceptance criteria 
  • Upholds data integrity standards through routine audits and validations of gift records 

Collaboration and Communication - 15% 

  • Coordinates with internal stakeholders and leadership to ensure all gifts are accurately categorized and properly receipted 
  • Responds to internal and external inquiries regarding gift status, documentation, and donor records 
  • Supports reconciliation of gift data with financial operations during monthly and year-end close processes 

Additional Administrative Support - 5% 

  • Assists in documenting and refining gift processing procedures and workflows 
  • Contributes to special projects, reporting, or audit preparation as needed 

Other Related Duties - 5% 

  • Performs other duties assigned directly related to the Foundation's mission and operations

Education and Experience

Required Education and Experience - Time of Hire

  • At least two years of experience in data entry, accounting support, donation processing, or related administrative work 
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in handling financial and donor information 
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and work with sensitive donor data 

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting, business, or related field 
  • Experience working in a nonprofit, foundation, or higher education environment 
  • Familiarity with donor management or fundraising software (e.g., Salesforce, DonorPerfect, RazorsEdge) 
  • Knowledge of IRS charitable giving regulations, PCI compliance, or general nonprofit accounting principles 
  • Experience reconciling financial data and preparing donor acknowledgment letters or receipts 

Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background, sex offender, and credit check.

Job Type: Unclassified

Appointment Duration: 12 months

Work Schedule: Full Time, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM or other hours as needed

Application Documents Required*:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Names and Contact Details for three (3) Professional References

*Consolidate into two documents to upload.

Open Until Filled with a first consideration date of July 7, 2026

Search Committee Chair: Donna Jacobs, djacobs@pittstate.edu

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.

Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all employees.

About Pittsburg State University

Founded in 1903, Pittsburg State's 373-acre campus is a beautiful blend of historic buildings and modern facilities, including state-of-the-art athletics, arts, and research facilities.  

Its residential and online undergraduate and graduate student population of nearly 6,000 is guided by an exceptionally talented and dedicated faculty, staff, and administrative team.  

Pitt State's hands-on learning environment and engagement by alumni working in a variety of professional sectors creates incredible academic, internship, and employment opportunities for students. Academic programs often bring home national honors.  

The university enjoys a close relationship with Pittsburg residents as well as city and business leaders. Throughout town, you'll see gorilla statues in front lawns and red and gold Gorilla spirit at local businesses. Students, faculty, and staff are highly engaged in the local school district and with service projects, and in turn the community is highly supportive of and engaged in university activities. 

Faculty, staff, and students have access to many amenities, including discounts and free access to concerts, plays, athletic events on campus as well as discounts on meals and services off campus.  

Pitt State has developed unique partnerships in downtown Pittsburg, 1.4 miles north of the main campus. There, Block22 and the historic Hotel Besse offer innovative student housing options and the new Kelce College of Business building, scheduled to open in July 2026, will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, collaboration spaces, and space for professional development and public events. 

The university has earned institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission and two elite classifications from the Carnegie Foundation. 

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