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Major Gift Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Associate General Counsel

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $180K/yr

The Associate General Counsel provides advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior ... major gift agreements. Ensures compliance with applicable tax, regulatory, and donor intent ...

There is no greater gift than good health and no greater satisfaction than helping others to ... Work all major U.S. holidays that the store is open. Sales Associated must be at least 18 years of ...

Sales Associate - PT

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

There is no greater gift than good health and no greater satisfaction than helping others to ... Work all major U.S. holidays that the store is open. Sales Associated must be at least 18 years of ...

There is no greater gift than good health and no greater satisfaction than helping others to ... Work all major U.S. holidays that the store is open. Sales Associated must be at least 18 years of ...

There is no greater gift than good health and no greater satisfaction than helping others to ... Work all major U.S. holidays that the store is open. Sales Associated must be at least 18 years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Major Gift Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$10.7K

$72.2K

How much do major gift associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for major gift associate in Illinois is $70,092.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $71,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a major gift associate do?

A Major Gift Associate is responsible for supporting an organization’s fundraising efforts by identifying, cultivating, and stewarding relationships with major donors. They work alongside development teams to manage donor portfolios, coordinate meetings and events, and assist in preparing proposals and reports. Their role is crucial in helping secure significant financial contributions that support the organization’s mission and long-term goals.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a major gift associate?

To thrive as a Major Gift Associate, you need experience in fundraising, donor relations, and research, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management or communications. Familiarity with donor management systems like Raiser’s Edge and proficiency in CRM databases are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, persuasive communication, and strategic thinking help build lasting relationships with major donors. These skills are crucial for securing large gifts and advancing the mission and financial sustainability of the organization.

How does a major gift associate typically collaborate with other fundraising team members to achieve donation goals?

A Major Gift Associate works closely with other members of the development team, such as major gift officers, annual giving coordinators, and donor relations staff. They often assist in researching prospective donors, preparing briefing materials, and coordinating donor meetings or events. Collaboration is key, as the associate ensures that communication and stewardship efforts are aligned and that donor data is accurately tracked and shared. Regular team meetings and joint strategy sessions help keep everyone focused on shared fundraising targets and donor engagement priorities.

What is the difference between Major Gift Associate vs Fundraising Coordinator?

AspectMajor Gift AssociateFundraising Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in nonprofit, communications, or related fields; experience in donor relationsBachelor's degree; experience in fundraising or event planning beneficial
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, development offices, fundraising teamsNonprofits, charities, event organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in nonprofit development departments focusing on major donorsCommon in fundraising and development roles across nonprofits
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in donor engagement and fundraising activities

The Major Gift Associate primarily focuses on cultivating relationships with major donors and securing large gifts, often requiring experience in donor relations. The Fundraising Coordinator handles a broader range of fundraising activities, including events and campaigns, with less emphasis on major donors. Both roles are essential in nonprofit development but differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Major Gift Associate jobs in Illinois?

For Major Gift Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Major Gift Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Major Gift Associate job openings:

Associate General Counsel

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

$119K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

388th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description


The Highlights:

Reporting to the Vice President and General Counsel, the Associate General Counsel provides an array of legal services to the University. The Associate General Counsel provides advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior University leadership on a broad range of complex matters, including real estate, facilities operations, tax and financing, commercial transaction, investments, advancement activities, and corporate governance. Exercises a high degree of independent judgment, manages institutional risk, and coordinates with outside counsel as appropriate.

What You'll Do:

1. Real Estate, Facilities, and Construction - Serves as primary legal advisor to the Vice President for Facilities Operations and related stakeholders on complex real estate and facilities matters, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, land use, zoning, and construction. Drafts, reviews, and negotiates sophisticated agreements and transactional documents. Identifies and mitigates legal and operational risks. Oversees and directs outside counsel on specialized matters. 

2. Commercial Transactions - Provides legal counsel to University departments and administrative units on a wide range of general contracts, commercial transactions, and institutional initiatives. Drafts, reviews, and negotiates agreements, including vendor contracts, service agreements, and other commercial instruments.   Supports cross-functional and enterprise initiatives by identifying legal risks, structuring solutions, and ensuring alignment with University policies and applicable laws. 

3. Tax, Finance, and Investments - Provides legal analysis and guidance to the University Treasurer and associated stakeholders on tax compliance, debt financing, and investment activities. Supports structuring and execution of financing transactions and investment arrangements. Drafts and reviews legal documents and coordinates with external counsel and financial professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and institutional objectives. 

4. Advancement and Planned Giving - Advises the Senior Vice President for Advancement and development staff on legal aspects of charitable giving, including planned giving vehicles, endowments, and major gift agreements. Ensures compliance with applicable tax, regulatory, and donor intent requirements. Reviews and drafts complex gift instruments and related documentation. 

5. Corporate Governance - Provides legal support to University departments on governance and policy interpretation. Drafts and reviews contracts, memoranda, and institutional forms. Contributes to development and implementation of policies that support compliance and operational effectiveness. 

Additional Responsibilities - Handles special projects and performs other duties as assigned consistent with the level and scope of the position.

Supervises the activities of outside counsel, external consultants, and activities of a paralegal working in the department on issues related to the portfolio.

What You'll Need:

  • JD from an ABA accredited law school, required.
    Minimum of 4 to 6 years' experience in the practice of law required, with some combination of real estate, commercial, non-profit, or education law, preferred.  
    Prior real estate, commercial/corporate transactional, and large firm experience highly desirable.
    Must be licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois.
    Demonstrated capability for legal research, analysis and reasoning.
    Superior oral and written communication skills.
    Ability to identify and resolve complicated and sensitive problems creatively and with professional discretion.
    Ability to interact and function effectively in an academic community.
    Proficiency with basic office software programs including Microsoft Office.
    Occasional weekend and evening work, as necessary.  
    Infrequent out-of-state travel.

The anticipated hiring range for this position is: $119,397 to $180,000. 

The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.


Perks:

  • Working for a stable and well-known University.
  • Top choice medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Retirement plan matching contribution of 8%.
  • Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
  • Generous paid time off, sick time, holidays, floating holidays, and more!
  • Full-Time Benefits

For consideration, please include a resume and cover letter.

Vincentian Mission:
Guided by an ethic of Vincentian personalism and professionalism, DePaul compassionately upholds the dignity of all members of its diverse, multi-faith, and inclusive community. We seek to hire collaborative, open-minded, and dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing our university mission to making education accessible to all, with special attention to including underserved and underrepresented communities. Successful candidates thrive in an environment where ideas and perspectives representing a wide variety of cultures, backgrounds and experiences are welcome and supported.

Required Background Check:

Employment at DePaul University is contingent on passing a background check. Only final candidates who are extended an offer of employment will undergo a background check.


DePaul University is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws.


 


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