Development Officer or Senior Development Officer

Position Title:

Development Officer or Senior Development Officer

Position Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Categories:

Staff Exempt

Job Summary:

** Multiple Positions Available **

Bucknell University is seeking talented, relationship-driven Development Officers and Senior Development Officers to join our growing University Advancement team in preparation for our campaign. These roles are ideal for fundraising professionals who are energized by building meaningful relationships, connecting donor passions to institutional priorities, and making a lasting impact through philanthropy. The positions involve extensive travel (approximately 50% of the time) to build and strengthen relationships with key donors, offering opportunities to engage directly with alumni, parents, and friends across the region.

Whether you are a strong major gift fundraiser ready to grow or a seasoned professional prepared for higher expectations, Bucknell offers a collaborative environment where strategy, relationships, and results matter.

Job Duties:

Are you energized by building meaningful relationships and connecting people to a bigger mission? Do you bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a thoughtful approach to your work? Are you comfortable taking ownership of your portfolio while collaborating across University Advancement and the broader campus?  If so, this role could be a great fit. We are looking for someone who navigates complex situations with professionalism and care, thrives in a team environment, and balances independent initiative with collaboration. ​

Strategy & Engagement (Approx. 30%)

• Develop strategies that align donor interests with Bucknell’s priorities.

• Collaborate with university leadership to tailor approaches that maximize fundraising outcomes.

• Participate in portfolio strategy reviews 

• Prepare strategic briefings and coordinate meaningful engagements that deepen donor connection to the University.

Portfolio Management (Approx. 70%)

• Consistently engage in strategic face-to-face meetings with principal ($1M+) and major ($100K+) gift prospects and donors to advance them through the donor continuum. Secure individual gifts of $100,000 or more and meet annual data-driven metrics.

• Manage all aspects of the donor portfolio, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.  

• Build and grow a healthy prospect pipeline across alumni, parents, and friends of the University.

• Partner with Gift Planning colleagues to maximize charitable giving opportunities.

• Plan and host campus visits and experiences that prepare donors for leadership-level giving.

• Maintain accurate and timely donor and prospect records, including contact reports, strategies, and next steps.

• Staff large scale campus events and plan visits for individual constituents to return to campus for meaningful cultivation.

• Travel extensively (including air travel and major metropolitan areas) to support portfolio engagement and stewardship.

The Strategic Philanthropy team is organized into three regional teams: New York Metro, Atlantic Region and West/Midwest.  Positions are currently available across all regions. Candidates will be hired into the Development Officer or Senior Development Officer role following a review of their skills and experience against the minimum qualifications. Regional placement will be determined based on individual experience, location, portfolio needs, and overall team balance.  This position may be considered for remote work, pending approval of the specific work location and in compliance with the University’s HR and Payroll requirements.

We are looking for exceptional people who will embrace our values:

• Lead with Integrity

• Embrace a Collaborative and Inclusive Spirit

• Be Open and Receptive

• Nurture Creativity and Innovation

• Foster a Culture of Empowerment and Knowledge

University Advancement is here to advance the mission of Bucknell University by engaging the Bucknell community. It is only through the support of alumni, parents and friends – by opening doors to career opportunities, engaging others to join the conversation and community, and entrusting us with their philanthropic commitments – that we can further elevate Bucknell as a l