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Major Gifts Associate Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Leadership Gifts Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

LEADERSHIP GIFTS ASSOCIATE (Full-time, Non-Exempt) PURPOSE: To perform tasks in support of all Leadership-level fundraising initiatives as directed. REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree from an accredited ...

Leadership Gifts Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

LEADERSHIP GIFTS ASSOCIATE (Full-time, Non-Exempt) PURPOSE: To perform tasks in support of all Leadership-level fundraising initiatives as directed. REQUIREMENTS: * Bachelor's degree from an ...

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

Major & Principal Gifts * Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects. * Develop and maintain gift acceptance policies, donor stewardship standards, and recognition frameworks. * Lead ...

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

Major & Principal Gifts * Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects. * Develop and maintain gift acceptance policies, donor stewardship standards, and recognition frameworks. * Lead ...

Director, Development

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$111K - $122K/yr

Major & Principal Gifts * Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects. * Develop and maintain gift acceptance policies, donor stewardship standards, and recognition frameworks. * Lead ...

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Major Gifts Associate information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$12.3K

$83.3K

How much do major gifts associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for major gifts associate in San Ramon, CA is $80,833.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,200.00 and $82,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are considered major gifts?

In the context of a Major Gifts Associate, major gifts refer to large financial contributions made by donors to an organization, typically exceeding a set threshold that varies by organization. These gifts often require personalized cultivation and stewardship, and the associate may use donor management tools to track and solicit such contributions.

What are Major Gifts Associates?

Major Gifts Associates are fundraising professionals who support nonprofit organizations by identifying, cultivating, and managing relationships with donors capable of making significant financial contributions, often referred to as 'major gifts.' They work closely with development teams to implement fundraising strategies, coordinate donor engagement activities, and track progress toward fundraising goals. Their responsibilities may include donor research, event planning, communications, and supporting stewardship efforts to ensure donors feel valued and connected to the organization's mission.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Major Gifts Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Major Gifts Associate, you need experience in fundraising, donor relations, and prospect research, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with donor management databases like Raiser’s Edge and proficiency in CRM systems are typically essential. Strong interpersonal communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills help you connect with donors and manage multiple priorities effectively. These skills are vital for cultivating and stewarding major donor relationships, which directly impact an organization’s fundraising success.

What does a major gifts officer do?

A major gifts officer is responsible for cultivating and soliciting large donations from high-net-worth individuals to support an organization’s fundraising goals. They identify potential donors, build relationships, and develop personalized giving strategies, often using donor management software. Strong communication, relationship-building skills, and knowledge of fundraising principles are essential in this role.

How much should a major gift officer raise?

A major gifts officer is typically responsible for securing large donations, with the amount raised varying based on the organization and region. On average, they may aim to secure gifts ranging from $10,000 to several million dollars annually, often focusing on cultivating relationships and leveraging fundraising tools. Success depends on experience, network, and organizational goals.

What does a major gifts officer make?

A major gifts officer typically earns between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, organization size, and location. They often receive additional compensation through bonuses or commissions based on fundraising success and may require strong communication and relationship-building skills.

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

AspectMajor Gifts AssociateFundraising Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in donor relationsBachelor's degree, general fundraising experience
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, development officesNonprofits, event planning, outreach teams
Employer & Industry UsageFundraising, development departmentsFundraising, nonprofit support roles
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Major Gifts Associate focuses on cultivating relationships with high-level donors to secure large donations, often working closely with senior staff. The Fundraising Coordinator handles broader fundraising activities, including event planning and outreach efforts. While both roles support nonprofit fundraising, the Major Gifts Associate specializes in major gift cultivation, making it a more targeted position within development teams.

How does a Major Gifts Associate typically collaborate with other departments within a nonprofit organization?

A Major Gifts Associate often works closely with development, communications, and program teams to ensure alignment on fundraising strategies and donor engagement. Collaborating with these departments helps create compelling proposals, coordinate donor events, and communicate the nonprofit’s impact to major donors. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for cultivating relationships and achieving fundraising goals, making strong communication and project management skills valuable in this role.
What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Major Gifts Associate jobs? Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Major Gifts Associate job openings:

Leadership Gifts Associate

Sfopera

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

LEADERSHIP GIFTS ASSOCIATE (Full-time, Non-Exempt) PURPOSE: To perform tasks in support of all Leadership-level fundraising initiatives as directed. REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university (preferred) or equivalent work experience Minimum two (2) years of related work experience, preferably in Development. Knowledge of principles and practices of fundraising and prospect research.

Knowledge of business writing. Knowledge of opera/performing arts preferred. Demonstrated successful track record of task management.

Understanding of basic principles of sales techniques and customer service. Ability to perform tasks accurately, with great attention to detail. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications; database skills desirable.

Proficiency in Tessitura revenue management system highly preferred. Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously. Ability to manage multiple, competing priorities successfully.

Comfortable working with volunteer leaders and Board committee members. Outstanding interpersonal skills including the ability to interact with artists, staff, the public, and volunteers in a professional, confidential and tactful manner. Ability to communicate logically, consistently and persuasively, both orally and in writing.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Coordinates ongoing stewardship and cultivation strategies for the Leadership Gifts team. Serves as primary Development Staff liaison with General Director's office and Board President's office in stewardship and cultivation strategies, including timely processing of acknowledgment letters and scheduling of cultivation/stewardship meetings. Using Tessitura and Excel (or other software as necessary), tracks progress on key aspects of the department's Leadership-level fundraising initiatives and strategies, including designated fund initiatives such as Camerata.

Provides administrative and clerical support to the Director of Leadership Gifts and Leadership Gifts Officers as needed. Oversees donor sponsor credits for all marketing and communication collateral. Coordinates and ensures timely recognition of gifts for donors in Leadership portfolios.

Coordinates the writing of Leadership-related materials, such as correspondences and sponsor spotlights. Assists Director of Leadership Gifts, Leadership Gifts Officers, and Prospect Research Manager with planning, managing and executing special strategies and projects. SECONDARY FUNCTIONS: Assists stewardship, events and hospitality staff as directed for Leadership-related functions.

Manages Leadership-level donor cultivation opportunities with production, media and rehearsal teams. Manages other donor analysis projects as assigned. Provides excellent patron relations services and directs patrons as appropriate for donors in Leadership portfolios.

Maintains development records and files as appropriate as well as archiving action plans and team strategies. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: E-mail required cover letter and resume with salary requirements to employment@sfopera.com, or fax to (415) 551-6297

No phone calls please. San Francisco Opera only retains resumes that are sent in response to specific, posted job openings. SAN FRANCISCO OPERA IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER COMMITTED TO DIVERSITY OF STAFF.