Associate Director Major Gifts – College of Engineering

About the role

The Associate Director, Major Gifts will lead frontline fundraising for the College of Engineering, managing a portfolio of prospective major donors and securing gifts ranging from $100K to $1M. Reporting to the Senior Director of Major Gifts, the role supports university‑wide priorities while developing deep expertise in engineering fundraising.

Key responsibilities

• Build and manage a portfolio of approximately 125 leadership and major‑gift prospects across alumni, friends, parents, and university leaders.
• Identify, qualify, cultivate, and solicit prospects through in‑person and virtual meetings, targeting gifts of $100K‑$1M.
• Employ innovative engagement strategies, linking donors to special programs, events, and university leaders.
• Partner with College of Engineering directors to create fundraising initiatives that resonate with donors.
• Collaborate with Advancement teams (Corporate & Foundation Relations, Family Philanthropy, Planned Giving) to maximize donor potential.
• Maintain prospect data in Salesforce, logging activities and ensuring data integrity.

Required profile

• 3‑5 years of progressive fundraising experience with a track record of soliciting 5‑ to 7‑figure gifts.
• Strong relationship‑building skills, solution‑focused mindset, and ability to travel as needed.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, detail orientation, and accountability to performance measures.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Salesforce for donor management.

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness, life insurance, retirement, and commuting/transportation support.
• Competitive salary range of $87,785.00 – $123,998.75, dependent on experience and qualifications.