Associate Director of Development, SciLine

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) seeks a passionate and strategic Associate Director of Development for SciLine to join the Advancement Office.

Reporting to the Director of Strategic Partnerships, the Associate Director of Development for SciLine will be the primary architect and driver of SciLine’s fundraising strategy, leading efforts to secure and steward major gifts from foundations and individual donors. This role requires a visionary leader who can cultivate high-level philanthropic partnerships and align fundraising efforts with SciLine’s mission to enhance public understanding of science. At a time when people across the country are struggling to access the evidence-based information they need to make informed decisions, SciLine provides access to diverse scientist sources on deadline, along with ready-to-use scientific information and training, for trusted reporters at media outlets across the country, bringing the expertise of scientists and the storytelling skills of journalists together for the public good.

Help us ignite the next era of science.

What You’ll Do

Development Strategy & Execution

• Collaborate with the SciLine and Philanthropy teams to create and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for SciLine.
• Identify, research, and engage prospective donors and funding sources, with a primary focus on foundations (approximately 70%) and a secondary focus on individual donors (approximately 30%).
• Write compelling proposals and reports, ensuring alignment with funders’ priorities and SciLine’s objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, effectively communicating SciLine’s mission and opportunities for impact.

Collaboration & Integration

• Serve as a key member of the SciLine team, working closely with program staff to understand SciLine initiatives and funding needs.
• Ensure alignment between SciLine’s programmatic goals and development strategies, identifying funding opportunities that support the program’s long-term sustainability.
• Act as a liaison between the SciLine team and AAAS’s Philanthropy team, sharing insights and ensuring integration of SciLine into organizational funding priorities.

Fundraising Operations & Reporting

• Track donor and prospect relationships, proposals, and reporting deadlines.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of grant reports, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.
• Provide regular updates ton fundraising progress, challenges, and opportunities.

Donor Stewardship & Communication

• Design and execute donor stewardship plans to recognize and retain funders.
• Develop impact reports, presentations, and other materials that highlight SciLine’s achievements and the value of donor support.
• Represent SciLine and AAAS at donor meetings, conferences, and events.

Minimum Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent career experience is required
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or a related field, with a proven track record of securing funding from foundations and individuals. Experience in securing funding from foundations focused on journalism is preferred.
• Strong understanding of science communication, journalism, and/or public engagement with science is highly desirable.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with demonstrated success in preparing grant proposals and donor-facing materials.
• Experience working collaboratively with program teams to align funding strategies with organizational goals.
• Knowledge of donor stewardship best practices and experience using donor management systems or CRM platforms.
• Strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• If you do not meet 100% of the requirements listed here, but you feel you could be effective in this role, we encourage you to apply and tell us why.

Application Process

Submit a resume and cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position by April 21, 2025. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. A Recruiter will contact you with next steps if you are selected for an interview.

The anticipated initial rate of compensation for this position is $115,000 – $125,000 per year. AAAS currently provides the following benefits for this position: paid vacation leave, paid sick leave, paid holidays, health insurance, flexible spending account, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, retirement benefits, short- and long-term disability, each subject to the terms of the applicable program. Additional benefits may apply.

Any actual offer of employment, reflecting the total compensation package and benefits, will be made in the sole discretion of AAAS and will be based on a variety of factors, including years of experience, depth of experience, and other relevant factors. AAAS reserves the right to amend or modify its employment benefits and compensation structure at any time.

AAAS is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category. AAAS uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. No visa sponsorship is available for this position.

Search Firm and Employment Agency Disclaimer
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Any unsolicited resumes sent to AAAS from a third party, such as an agency, including unsolicited resumes sent to an AAAS mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to AAAS employees, or to the AAAS resume database will be considered AAAS property. Verbal or written communications from any employee of AAAS shall not be considered binding obligations. AAAS Human Resources is the only AAAS representative authorized by AAAS enter into any employment agreements with any third party. AAAS will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.

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