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Major Gift Associate Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate - PT

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

We believe that good health is the greatest gift, and there's nothing more rewarding than helping ... Work all major U.S. holidays that the store is open. Sales Associated must be at least 18 years of ...

Major Gift Associate information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$12K

$81.5K

How much do major gift associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for major gift associate in Santa Rosa, CA is $79,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $80,900.00 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

For Major Gift Associate jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Major Gift Associate jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Major Gift Associate job openings:

Sr. Major Gifts Officer, Day Shift, Full-time

Saint Helena, CA • On-site


Adventist Health
Non-Profits • 10K+ employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 245 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Located in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States, St. Helena Hospital was founded in 1878 and has a rich history of innovative medical care. We are comprised of a 151-bed hospital, emergency department and medical offices with centers of excellence in specialty care, including Adventist Heart and Vascular Institute, Coon Joint Replacement Institute, Martin-O'Neil Cancer Center and Behavioral Health units. In the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a charming place, and the quality of life is unsurpassed with outdoor adventure, rejuvenation at luxurious spas, popular restaurants, as well as perfect weekend getaways to San Francisco or the coast.

Job Summary:

Strategizes, plans and executes Major Gifts programs. Identifies and qualifies prospective donors, cultivating positive relationships and directly soliciting donations at the major gift level. Represents the organization to donors, sharing the need for financial support and motivating people to want to support the mission of the organization.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience:

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education/related experience: Required
  • Five years' fundraising experience: Required

Licenses/Certifications:

  • Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE): Preferred

Essential Functions:

  • Develops and implements major gift giving programs which incorporate planning, strategizing, prospect research, personal solicitations, follow-up and long-term donor/prospect cultivation. Recruits, organizes and staffs volunteer committees for the purpose of establishing relationships with and conducting solicitations of new prospects and existing donors. Provides training, direction and support to fundraising volunteers and new fundraising committee members.
  • Develops and proposes strategies for solicitation of major gifts, including determining ongoing relationship with prospect/donor, recommending specific purpose and level of gift, identifying those to be involved in cultivation and subsequent solicitation, and ensuring solicitations are carried out.
  • Researches opportunities to solicit major donors and involves them in the mission of the organization. Implements processes to sustain cultivation efforts and maintains contact with existing donors to ensure long-term relationships. Coordinates processes and activities for the purpose of building a portfolio of potential donors capable and inclined to give $10,000 or more annually. Designs and implements appropriate cultivation and solicitation activities.
  • Implements fundraising campaign, creates marketing materials and monitors progress toward fundraising goals. Attends special events hosted by the organization, such as galas, facility tours and receptions, to interact with donors and identify prospects.
  • Identifies a pool of current, past and lapsed donors capable and inclined to give $10,000, or more. Develops intermediate giving segmentation strategies and executes in order to group donors for face-to-face or direct mail solicitation.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:

Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Adventist Health participates in E-Verify. Visit https://adventisthealth.org/careers/everify/ for more information about E-Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein.

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.


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