Associate Director, Development - College of Engineering

Job title: Associate Director, Development - College of Engineering

About the Role As the Associate Director of Development for the College of Engineering, you will lead major gift fundraising efforts for the college, handling identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors giving $50,000 and up. You will report to the Senior Director of Development and collaborate with assigned college leadership, faculty, and staff to advance fundraising priorities.

What You'll Do

• Manage a portfolio of 50 to 75 qualified major giving prospects capable of $50,000+ gifts; oversee qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Develop and execute solicitation plans to move prospects toward gift closure within three years.
• Acquire knowledge of College and University programs to craft effective donor cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Develop draft proposals and recognition opportunities for named initiatives and ensure adherence to stated processes and procedures.
• Serve as a DAR contact and support the assigned college/unit Dean, Chairs, faculty, and staff with fundraising strategies and donor engagement activities; coordinate monthly fundraising meetings.
• Work collaboratively with development colleagues who manage College-based donors and prospects; assist in coordinating stewardship reports and activities for prospects with appropriate administration.

What We're Looking For

• Experience in major gift fundraising and donor engagement.
• Ability to manage a sizeable portfolio (50–75) of prospects capable of $50,000+ gifts and move them toward solicitation within a few years.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and proposal development skills.
• Knowledge of college/university programs to develop effective donor cultivation strategies.
• Ability to work with academic leadership, faculty, and staff to advance fundraising priorities.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to coordinate with Development and Alumni Relations teams.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay grade: 30S; Total Rewards benefits and Compensation Estimator provide a clear view of the complete package.
• Specific salary not disclosed in the posting; details available through UD Total Rewards.