Development Assistant

We are no longer accepting applications for this position.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Washington (ACLU-WA) is seeking a detail-oriented Development Assistant. Reporting to the Database Manager, the Development Assistant is an integral part of the Development Department, processing and acknowledging donations, responding to member inquiries and providing administrative support. This job demands close attention to detail and accuracy. The ideal candidate will be someone who revels in crossing their Ts and dotting their Is. 
 
OVERVIEW

The ACLU of Washington is a leader among state affiliates of the American Civil Liberties Union, the country's premier guardian of liberty. We work in courts, legislatures, and communities to protect and extend American rights to freedom, fairness and equality. The ACLU is both nonprofit and nonpartisan. The ACLU-WA’s staff of 40+ employees and numerous volunteers work in a fast-paced, friendly and professional office in downtown Seattle. We are supported by more than 75,000 members, activists, and donors.
 
The ACLU is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, socio-economic circumstance, or record of arrest or conviction.
 
Our Development Program focuses on building long-term relationships with our donors. We are a team of five who care deeply about the work of the ACLU. We very much enjoy working together and stay easily inspired by our amazing program colleagues who carry out the work of justice and equality. 
 
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Gift processing
Enter gifts and pledges into the donor database, prepare acknowledgment letters and pledge reminders. Maintain electronic files of acknowledgment letters, scans of checks, and donor correspondence. Run daily, weekly, monthly and yearly financial reports. Work closely with the Finance department.
 
Customer service
Act as the first point of contact in the Development Department for calls from supporters; respond to inquiries about ACLU membership. Provide general information about the ACLU and its programs. Contact donors about donations when necessary. Serve as liaison with the national office about donor records or preferences.
 
Event coordination
Coordinate logistics for small donor events such as house parties, in-office briefings, “field trips” to view ACLU’s work in courts, private dinners, and receptions.
 
Executive portfolio support
Record all donor interactions for the Executive portfolio in the database. Assist with putting together donor spreadsheets and information.  Format Executive portfolio call list.
 
Administration
Provide support to the Development team including scheduling meetings, taking notes, drafting staff presentation meeting reports and follow up emails. Assist with donor mailings.
 
Other
Participate in the Development Team as a cooperative, positive team player. Help maintain a respectful, welcoming, and professional office environment. Develop a solid understanding of ACLU’s structure, programs, office protocols, and equipment. Attend certain ACLU functions and assist in other ways as assigned.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Strong organizational skills to maintain record systems.
  • Excellent word processing skills and computer proficiency, including MS Office Suite, Excel and the Internet. Strong proficiency in fundraising databases is a plus.
  • Strong writing skills.
  • At least two years of administrative experience, preferably related to non-profits or advocacy.
  • Superior attention to detail with strong follow-through.
  • High ethical standards, and a commitment to the confidentiality of donor records.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills. High level of professionalism. The ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with donors, board members, volunteers, staff, and the general public. The ability to work collaboratively.
  • A confident and professional work style. Ability to take initiative and work independently, as well as work as a member of a team. Ability to exercise good judgment in stressful circumstances. Flexibility and a willingness to take on new tasks as the responsibilities of the position evolve.  
  • A commitment to diversity; a personal approach that values the individual and respects differences of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability and socio-economic circumstance.
  • Demonstrated commitment to and enthusiasm for the ACLU’s mission and principles.
  • A commitment to staying in the position for at least two years.
This job description provides a general but not comprehensive list of the essential responsibilities and qualifications required. It does not represent a contract of employment. The ACLU reserves the right to change the description and/or posting at any time without advance notice. This position is non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
 
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Salary is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include three weeks of vacation to start, medical and disability insurance, a retirement plan, and an ORCA card.
 
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

To apply, email a letter of application and resume to [email protected] and include in the subject line of the email: your last name and Development Assistant. In your letter, please indicate where you learned of the posting. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, at which time the posting will be removed from our website at www.aclu-wa.org/careers
 
The ACLU of Washington comprises two separate corporate entities, the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington, Inc. and the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington Foundation. The two corporations share the same overall mission, office space, and employees. This job posting refers collectively to the two organizations under the name “ACLU of Washington.”