Priority will be given to applications submitted before July 1, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted and reviewed until the position is filled.
Join our team of mission-driven professionals!
Whatcom Center for Early Learning (WCEL) provides transformational services for young children and their families across Whatcom County, WA-with majestic mountains, beautiful seaside views, and a thriving outdoor recreation culture. Founded in 1973, WCEL partners with families and caregivers to provide high-quality, equitable, and comprehensive therapy, early learning, and support services to children, with a focus on those experiencing developmental delays and disabilities. WCEL is a non-profit organization with a $5 million annual budget and approximately 60 employees. For more information, please visit www.wcel.net.
Lived experience brings valuable insight
We are working to build a team that reflects the communities that we serve and brings a range of perspectives to help strengthen our services. We strongly encourage candidates who bring lived experience related to the barriers people may face in accessing early support services including, but not limited to, experiences related to race, culture, language, disability, identity, or involvement with support systems to apply. This perspective helps us better understand the needs of our communities, improve how we deliver services, and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and supported. If you meet the qualifications and feel your experience can help us grow in this way, we would love to hear from you.
Position Summary
The Executive & Advancement Assistant provides high-level administrative and coordination support to the Executive Director, with a focus on supporting development activities and organizational communications. This role will play a key part in supporting development efforts and ensuring organizational communications align with executive priorities.
This role contributes to WCEL's sustainability and external presence by coordinating development-related processes, supporting clear and consistent communication materials, and maintaining organized executive operations. The position requires strong attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Location: Primarily works from our Cordata location.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Executive Operations & Administrative Support
- โManage scheduling and calendar coordination for the Executive Director
- โDraft, format, and distribute internal and external communications
- โMaintain organized and accurate executive records, files, and documentation
- โCoordinate meetings and prepare detailed notes for leadership and board meetings
- Support agenda creation and updating
Development & Communications Support
- โTrack fundraising and development deadlines, activities, and follow-ups
- โMaintain organized donor and development-related records and documentation
- โSupport preparation of development materials, reports, and correspondence
- โAssist with coordination of donor engagement activities and community partnerships
- โSupport preparation of external communications, including newsletters, updates, and outreach materials
- โExecute and support social media creation and distribution
- Assist in maintaining consistency and accuracy across organizational messaging
- โHelp organize and manage communication assets (templates, contact lists, distribution materials)โ
Systems, Events, & Organizational Projects
- Execute assigned tasks that support department tools, systems, and tracking processes
- Assist with community events, outreach activities, and occasional tabling
- Contribute to cross-functional projects and organizational priorities, as assigned
Skills and Abilities:
- โโโStrong written communication skills, including drafting and editing professional materials
- โHighly skilled in social media creation and distribution
- Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracy
- โAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with minimal supervision
- โDemonstrated discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality
- โStrong interpersonal skills and cultural humility when working with diverse communities
- โComfort working with data, tracking tools, and document management systems
- โAdaptability and problem-solving in a dynamic environment
- โProficiency with technology and ability to learn new systems quicklyโโ
Education and Knowledge:
Required
- โHigh school diploma or GED
- โMinimum of two (2) years of experience in an administrative or executive support roles
- โEquivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Preferred
- โFluency in more than one language
- โExperience in nonprofit development, fundraising support, or community engagement
- โExperience supporting organizational communications or outreach efforts
- โFamiliarity with donor tracking systems or CRM tools
- โExperience in early learning, healthcare, or community-based servicesโโ
Benefits:
- Simple IRA with 3% company match
- Health insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) โ including family coverage options
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Professional development stipend after 90 days of employment
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Other Requirements
- Vehicle in working condition, driver's license, and auto insurance
- Consent to background check and fingerprinting
FLSA Status Options
Non-Exempt: This position is eligible for overtime pay for any time worked beyond 40 hours in a Sunday-Saturday workweek, in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Washington State regulations.
Whatcom Center for Early Learning (WCEL) is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.