Posting DetailsPosting Details
Job # 043182
Department Code 21401-6001
Department Engineering & Computer Science
Job Title Director of Development
Location Syracuse, NY
Campus Syracuse, NY
Commitment to On-Campus Experience Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.
Pay Range $ 92,500 - $ 108,000
Pay Determination Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate's education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university's strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.
Staff Level S5
FLSA Status Exempt
Hours Standard University business hours:
8:30am - 5:00pm (academic year)
8:00am - 4:30pm (summer)
Hours may vary based on operational needs.
Job Type Full-time
Unionized Position Code Not Applicable
Job Description Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Advancement for the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Director of Development (DoD) serves as a major gift fundraiser responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding prospects and donors. This individual will focus on building a portfolio of alumni, parents and friends by creating and implementing strategies for cultivating and soliciting prospects who have the capacity and inclination to make gifts/commitments of $100,000 or more. A key partner to the Assistant Dean and Dean in their work with top prospects, this person will be expected to move donors through the pipeline with purpose. The DoD will engage and meet with prospects in person and virtually.
Key metrics for this position include face-to-face/virtual visits, number and dollar amount of major and annual gift solicitations, and increased College of Engineering and Computer Science alumni engagement and giving participation.
Education and Experience - Bachelor's degree required.
- A minimum of three years fundraising experience, in Higher Education preferred.
- Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft applications, and CRM systems.
- Valid driver's license required.
Skills and Knowledge - Proven track record of qualifying prospects and soliciting major gifts with a donor-centric approach while managing all stages of the relationship
- Exceptional relationship building skills with internal and external constituents
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to articulate the case for support
- Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to follow through with attention to details
- Flexibility and the ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing environment and manage multiple priorities
- Goal driven team player capable of working independently
- Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment
Responsibilities - Develop and manage a portfolio of prospective and existing major gift donors with the capacity to make gifts/commitments of $100,000 plus. Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit and steward prospects and donors.
- Meaningful contact or attempted contact of 100% of portfolio during any 6-month period.
- Develop and drive fundraising strategies designed to maximize current giving potential for each prospect including leadership annual gift solicitations. Communicate with donors on a regular basis through email, virtual visits, face-to-face visits, phone, and handwritten correspondence.
- Creatively and meaningfully engage donors through curated campus experiences, events and gatherings in their communities. Build fluency about the College of Engineering and Computer Science and its key programs and priorities by developing and maintaining relationships with its faculty, staff and students.
- In collaboration with the Assistant Dean for Advancement, work strategically and collaboratively with central AEA offices, including Advancement Services, Prospect Development and Analytics, Philanthropic Engagement, Gift Planning, Regional Development, and Alumni Engagement to increase giving, participation and engagement, and to meet personal and unit fundraising goals.
- Travel as needed for visits, meetings, and events.
- Report results of all outreach/gifts/solicitation efforts in the CITRUS/CRM database and to the Assistant Dean for Advancement. Develop and keep updated plans and opportunities. Ensure the accuracy and timely entry of all information and records.
- Support the Assistant Dean's and Dean's travel and donor engagement activities as needed, including preparation of briefings, prospect strategies, and post-visit follow-up.
- Support the Assistant Dean and Dean in their work with College volunteer board(s) as needed including new member recruitment.
- Attend and participate in college and central development office events and meetings, training opportunities, and University-wide functions.
- Perform related duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishments of the responsibilities and functions related to this position.
Physical Requirements Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment Not Applicable
Application Instructions In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.
About the Syracuse area Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
Quick Link https://www.sujobopps.com/postings/114906
Job Posting Date 10/22/2026
Application DeadlineFull Consideration ByJob Category Staff
Message to Applicants