Director of Philanthropy
$90,000–$90,000 year
Hybrid · Baltimore, Maryland, United States
Job Summary
Director of Philanthropy leads the design and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to diversify AURA’s funding beyond federal support. The role involves cultivating partnerships with foundations, corporations, government agencies, and individual donors to support AURA’s Centers, programs, and initiatives. Key duties include defining funding strategies with senior staff, developing multi-year donor-centric fundraising tactics, managing the philanthropy budget and ROI, supervising the philanthropy team and CRM usage, and engaging with the Board and Audit Committee. The position requires building relationships with grant-makers, corporate funders, and individual donors, while aligning fundraising activities with organizational goals and compliance. AURA emphasizes collaboration across Centers, external funders, and internal partners to advance mission and open resources for transformative astronomical research and public understanding. Preferred qualifications include experience with science/STEM fundraising, familiarity with federal grant structures, and an advanced degree; CFRE certification is a plus; hybrid work arrangement is indicated, with relocation support available.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in philanthropy, fundraising, and/or donor relations; 10+ years preferred
- Quantifiable success raising funds from foundations, philanthropic organizations, corporate entities, and high-net-worth individuals
- Professional writing and speaking skills for scientists, executives, partners, and staff
- Experience generating revenue with budget and ROI accountability
- CRM management experience; Virtuous familiarity a plus
- Ability to lead and develop a small team; collaboration across stakeholders
- Strong interpersonal and donor-relations skills; ability to engage volunteers and staff
- Ability to work independently and in a matrixed organization; maintain confidentiality
- Knowledge of fundraising for scientific organizations; familiarity with STEM funders and federal funding structures (NSF, NASA) a plus
- CFRE certification is a plus
- Advanced degree in a relevant field is a plus
- Applications deadline: June 26, 2026 (reference notice)
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