Development Coordinator

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY

Career Resources, Inc. (CRI) is Connecticut’s pre-eminent workforce development nonprofit agency, with documented expertise in meeting the needs of both jobseekers and employers. Founded 1995, in Bridgeport, CRI supports youth and adults, many with significant barriers to employment, in obtaining the skills needed to enter the workforce and build a career pathway to economic self-sufficiency. A strong focus of the organization is on serving the re-entry population through programs designed to assist system-impacted individuals to successfully reintegrate into their communities.

Each year, the Development Department is responsible in raising millions of dollars in restricted and unrestricted funding via an array of sources. Additionally, in coordination with private and government partners, the Development Department is currently managing a $20M capital campaign, as well as the development of real estate within Bridgeport, to create a groundbreaking resource center and network of community support services. This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join a growing, highly reputable organization as it embarks on the next iteration of its mission.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Development Coordinator is being created as a critical role in the overall fundraising and marketing strategy for the organization. This position will report to the Development Manager, under the direction of the Chief Development Officer. Career Resources, Inc. is seeking an enthusiastic team player who is comfortable with multi-tasking and working in a demanding, high-stakes environment. This position requires a highly detailed individual who possesses experience with both grant writing and data-management. As a grant writer, this candidate will research grant opportunities, write compelling proposals and effective reports, and work with the leadership and programs teams to ensure the development budget is met and exceeded. This individual will also have a high administrative capacity, and be responsible for gathering, processing, and analyzing donor data in order for the information to be leveraged as part of the donor cultivation strategy. This candidate must possess a strong and proactive sense of initiative and follow-through, who is able to manage expectations effectively and communicate efficiently.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assist with the implementation of the development plan that incorporates a range of strategies including individual giving, major donors, corporate and foundation grants, and special events.

Research and track grant opportunities.

Write compelling proposals and effective reports.

Work within CRI’s existing grant agreement tracking system, including maintaining relevant attachment files for submission and resubmission and submitting donor acknowledgements.

Assist with the production and implementation of annual appeal campaigns, as well other fundraising communications and outreach strategies.

Conduct research on various topics and prepare materials for events/projects as needed.

Prepare supporting materials for prospects and partners.

Perform administrative duties related to the expansion of and maintenance of the CRI donor databases, updating and accurately entering information and action items, processing all contributions, and designing and running reports, etc.

Support the Board Development Committee, including taking meeting minutes and sending them to committee members in a timely fashion.  

Relative to special events, work as part of the development/marketing teams to establish and adhere to the development budget, assist with event preparation, and attend events to assist in set up, implementation, and clean up.

Attend networking events as needed to increase professional network, refine relationship management skills, and enhance organization’s outreach and capacity.

Assist with social media outputs including event outreach and visibility strategy.

Other duties upon request.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Undergraduate Degree is a requirement.

Minimum of 5 years of nonprofit fundraising experience.

Grant writing experience is a requirement.

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.

Attention to detail and project management skills are a must.

Knowledge and experience with data entry systems and reporting.

Proficiency in the use of various MS Office programs, including Word, Excel and Outlook, as well as various databases including Constant Contact, Canva, Bloomerang and GrantHub, a plus.

Knowledge of social media tools: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, X.

Knowledge of website management.

Interest and desire to learn how to become an impactful development professional.

Ability to work within deadlines and in a goal-oriented environment.

Ability to prioritize, multi-task and follow through with minimal direction.

Flexibility in varied job assignments.

Willingness to pitch in when/where needed.

An understanding of and belief in, the mission of Career Resources, Inc.

Compensation is commensurate with experience and relevant labor market comparisons.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

All applications must be accompanied by a cover letter and résumé. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of Career Resources, Inc., as well as the responsibilities and qualifications presented in the position description.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the successful candidate has been selected.