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University Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Development

Hammond, IN · On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

Overview of Director of Development Purdue University Northwest is seeking a Director of Development. The Director of Development is responsible for cultivating and stewarding philanthropic ...

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University Development information

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do university development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for university development in the United States is $77,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get with a development studies degree?

A development studies degree prepares individuals for roles such as development officer, program coordinator, policy analyst, or NGO manager, often requiring skills in project management, research, and communication. Graduates can work in government agencies, international organizations, or nonprofit sectors focused on social, economic, or community development.

How does a University Development professional typically collaborate with academic departments and faculty?

University Development professionals work closely with academic departments and faculty to identify funding needs, develop compelling proposals, and align fundraising efforts with institutional priorities. They often facilitate meetings, gather information about research or program initiatives, and help translate academic goals into donor-friendly language. Strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as these professionals act as liaisons between faculty and potential donors, ensuring that fundraising strategies support the university's academic mission.

What is University Development?

University Development refers to the efforts and activities focused on fundraising, alumni relations, and securing financial support for a university. This department works to build relationships with donors, alumni, corporations, and foundations to support scholarships, research, capital projects, and other university priorities. University Development professionals organize campaigns, events, and outreach initiatives to engage supporters and promote the institution's mission. Their work is essential for ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of the university.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

Professions such as sales managers, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, and certain tech roles like software developers can earn $200,000 or more annually without a traditional college degree, often relying on experience, certifications, or specialized skills. High commissions, performance bonuses, or entrepreneurial ventures typically contribute to reaching this income level.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

University development professionals observe that Gen Z faces challenges in the job market due to high competition, evolving skill requirements, and a preference for remote or flexible work arrangements. Additionally, limited work experience and gaps in soft skills like communication and teamwork can impact their employability.

What is the difference between University Development vs University Fundraising Coordinator?

AspectUniversity DevelopmentUniversity Fundraising Coordinator
Primary FocusStrategic planning, alumni relations, major gift cultivationEvent planning, donor outreach, campaign support
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in fundraising or developmentBachelor's degree, experience in fundraising or donor relations
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, university campuses, eventsOffice-based, campus events, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, higher education institutionsUniversities, higher education institutions

University Development involves strategic planning and relationship management to secure major gifts and build long-term support, while University Fundraising Coordinators focus on executing fundraising campaigns, organizing events, and engaging donors. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but University Development has a broader strategic scope compared to the more operational focus of Fundraising Coordinators.

What does a university development officer do?

A university development officer is responsible for building relationships with donors, securing funding through donations, and managing fundraising campaigns to support the institution's goals. They often organize events, prepare grant proposals, and use fundraising software to track progress. Strong communication, networking skills, and knowledge of the university's needs are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in University Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in University Development, you need strong fundraising expertise, relationship-building skills, and a background in higher education or nonprofit management, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with donor management databases (such as Raiser's Edge), CRM systems, and fundraising analytics tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, networking abilities, and strategic thinking help professionals engage donors and collaborate with internal stakeholders. These skills are crucial for securing philanthropic support, building long-term partnerships, and advancing the university’s mission.
More about University Development jobs
What cities are hiring for University Development jobs? Cities with the most University Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of University Development jobs? The most popular types of University Development jobs are:
What states have the most University Development jobs? States with the most job openings for University Development jobs include:
Infographic showing various University Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Assistant Director of Development, Athletics

Assistant Director of Development, Athletics

New York University

New York, NY • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


New York University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University Development and Alumni Relations (UDAR) is dedicated to soliciting the private funding necessary to support the strategic goals of the University in teaching, learning, and research. The personnel of UDAR work university-wide as well as within individual schools and colleges of the University to discover, motivate, cultivate, solicit, and steward alumni, parents, faculty, and friends for immediate, long-range, and future financial support, through gifts and pledges to the University, for critical operations such as student aid, faculty support, academic and research program development, and facilities and infrastructure. UDAR's endeavors raise funds for immediate University use and also for the University's endowment.

The Assistant Director of Development, Athletics will raise funds in support of NYU Athletics. Manage a portfolio of alumni, parents, and friends who are capable of making leadership-level annual fund and major gifts to the NYU Athletics department. Conduct engagements and meetings in person or virtually for the purpose of qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, with progressively ambitious fundraising goals. Serve as a subject matter expert regarding NYU Athletics and work with colleagues across University Development and Alumni Relations (UDAR) to assist in the development and creation of fundraising materials related to the department, including donor proposals and outlining fundraising opportunities for Varsity Sports & Recreation. Partner with the Athletics department leadership to steward major donors with personalized acknowledgments and impact reporting. Occasional domestic travel to build relationships and develop philanthropy may be required.

UDAR encourages work-life integration for our employees, therefore this position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement.


Required Education:
Bachelor's Degree
Preferred Education:
Master's Degree
Required Experience:
5+ years relevant experience fundraising major gifts from diverse constituents, with a proven track record of closing six-seven figure commitments, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Must include experience working with stakeholders to develop fundraising plans and priorities
Preferred Experience:
7+ years progressive fundraising experience with outcomes of 6-figure gifts

Experience fundraising in an Athletics environment and coordinating “day of giving” or similar fundraising campaigns
Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to draft development correspondence and meet with constituents

Strong knowledge of MS Office Suite and Google Workspace and a general knowledge of non-profit donor databases

Ability to use data to guide decisions

Ability to take initiative and collaborate with others

Goal-oriented

Ability to travel nationally

Knowledge of grant fundraising and ability to solicit corporate contributions and sponsorships

Working knowledge of planned giving

Ability to develop and manage volunteer and donor engagement strategies to meet fundraising goals
Preferred Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
Demonstrated understanding of collegiate athletics landscape and trends, knowledge of the complexities of an urban university, and ability to persuasively represent its goals to multiple constituents


In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the annual base salary range for this position is USD $100,000.00 to USD $120,000.00. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, clinical compensation, or other items.
NYU aims to be among the greenest urban campuses in the country and carbon neutral by 2040. Learn more at nyu.edu/nyugreen.
NYU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a policy of equal treatment and opportunity in every aspect of its recruitment and hiring process without regard to age, alienage, caregiver status, childbirth, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, familial status, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital status, military status, national origin, parental status, partnership status, predisposing genetic characteristics, pregnancy, race, religion, reproductive health decision making, sex, sexual orientation, unemployment status, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis. All interested persons are encouraged to apply at all levels.


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About New York University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an innovator in higher education, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. Today, that trailblazing spirit makes NYU one of the most prominent and respected research universities in the world, featuring top-ranked academic programs and accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. Anchored in New York City and with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai as well as 12 study away sites throughout the world, NYU is a leader in global education, with more international students and more students studying abroad than any other US university.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1831