Development Associate
| Organization | The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA |
| Date Posted | June 18, 2026 |
| City | Vancouver |
| State | Washington |
| Location | 100% On-site |
| Type of Position | Full-Time |
| Primary Job Function | Fundraising |
| Secondary Job Function | Administrative |
| Educational Requirement | Bachelor's Degree |
| Experience Requirement | 3-5 years |
| Salary Range | $50,000 – $65,000 annually |
Description & Details
About the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
The VSO, now in its 48th season, has been a cornerstone of Southwest Washington's arts community providing symphonic music of the highest caliber in live performances and through music education in schools, concert halls, and throughout the community.
Full Job Description
The Development Associate will help build the Orchestra’s capacity for the future through the planning and implementation of annual fund campaigns, individual giving, event logistics, and new initiatives.
The Development Associate will provide key support and assistance to the Director of Development. This role will interact with donors, building a pipeline for the VSO’s major giving and planned giving programs. This position requires familiarity with navigating CRM databases to track donor contacts and giving, familiarity with annual giving strategy, experience managing donor-related events, strong communication and writing skills, and an ability to work collaboratively with a growing team.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
· Implement the VSO annual fund program, including mailings and annual fundraising drives.
· Work with partners and vendors to coordinate annual fund communications.
· Steward relationships with prospective donors and current supporters to increase philanthropic support.
· Manage donor management/fundraising database and tracking systems.
· Assist the Director of Development in submitting grant applications.
· Direct, oversee and manage varying sizes of fundraising events.
· Oversee and manage gift acknowledgement process.
· Perform other related duties as requested.
QUALIFICATIONS
· Commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
· Be a “self-starter” and goal driven to initiate donor communications.
· Ability to organize time effectively, establish priorities, meet deadlines, and manage many tasks while maintaining strong attention to details.
· Coordination and project management skills, preferably with nonprofit organizations.
· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and external partners.
· Excellent writing and editing skills, including the ability to prepare and proofread clear, concise and grammatically correct.
· At least one year of nonprofit development and event planning experience is preferred.
· High competency in database management.
· Strong working knowledge of Constant Contact, Mail Chimp or email marketing services.
· Strongly proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
· Familiarity with donor management software such as Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge is preferred.
· Experienced with event planning and coordination.
· Knowledge of and experience in fundraising techniques.
· Experience in annual giving is preferred.
· Schedule flexibility to attend occasional evening and weekend events.
· A bachelor’s degree or four years of relevant experience.
· Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Compensation:
· Full Time
· Range $50,000-$65,000
· Commensurate with Experience
· Benefits and PTO
Application Instructions
Please send cover letter, resume, names/contact info of three references and salary history to thevso@vancouversymphony.org
Please indicate “Development Associate” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed immediately. Position is open until filled.
The VSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.