Membership and Development Associate
SUMMARY
The Center for Puppetry Arts is seeking a dynamic and highly organized Membership and Development Associate to join our team. This position will support the Membership and fundraising efforts of the organization, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Center. As a key member of the Development team, the Associate will lead Membership operations, and assist with donor services, rental contracts, and special fundraising events. The ideal candidate is passionate about the arts, skilled in communication, and dedicated to building relationships with Members and donors.
ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
At the Center for Puppetry Arts, you will be part of a vibrant, creative team dedicated to preserving and advancing the art of puppetry. You will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the Center’s mission while gaining experience in nonprofit development and Membership engagement. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, along with a competitive salary and benefits package.
REPORTS TO
Chief Operating Officer
PRIMARY
RESPONSIBILITIES
Membership Operations:
- Manage Membership communications including renewals, new sign-ups, lapsed Member outreach, and newsletters and event invitations.
- Provide excellent customer service to Members, addressing inquiries and concerns in a timely and professional manner.
- Maintain accurate Membership records in the database, ensuring all data is up-to-date and reports are generated as needed.
- Generate reports for Membership activities, analyze trends, and provide insights to the Development team.
- Coordinate Member event invitations, RSVP management, and event-day activities.
- Collaborate with the Development and Marketing teams to develop and implement strategies for Member retention and growth, including special promotions and engagement initiatives.
Fundraising and Donor Relations - Work with the Development Team in the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising campaigns and events.
- Assist the Development Manager with donor and upper-level Member stewardship efforts, including writing thank-you letters and updating donors on the impact of their gifts.
- Support the Development Team with the logistics and execution of fundraising events such as annual galas, auctions, and special Membership events.
Rentals Coordination - Lead the review and booking process for external rentals of the Center’s facilities and leverage connections for both rental and development opportunities.
- Coordinate the fulfillment of rentals with the Operations and Production Teams.
Collaboration and Community Engagement - Engage with the local community and represent the Center at various outreach events to increase visibility and awareness of the Center and Membership.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Must be able to lift 20 to 30 pounds.
- Sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.
- Must have a car and valid driver’s license.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- 2+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, Membership, business, or development.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required and experience with CRM/databases preferred (Raiser’s Edge, Tessitura).
- Time management skills.
- A passion for the arts and its role in education and entertainment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
- Available to work evening and weekend events as needed.
DESIRED SKILLS
- Knowledge of nonprofit administration practices.
- Experience in event planning and coordination.
- Experience with campaign writing, email marketing platforms and social media management.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma required.
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field preferred.
- At least four years of related experience is required.
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
AND PAY
Full-time, hourly position with benefits.
$21.63 per hour or $45,000 per year plus overtime. This is a non-exempt position.
BENEFITS
- Medical –Center pays 75% of the employee’s premium.
- Dental
- Vision
- 403(b)
- Disability, Life and AD&D Insurance
- Vacation– 14 days.
- Sick Leave – 6 days
- Paid Holidays – 9 Days
- Paid Personal Days – 5 Days
- Paid Dark Week- 5 Days
- Museum Store Discounts
- Free show tickets
- Free parking
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit your resume and a cover letter to hr@puppet.org. Please include a brief statement of why you are excited about this position and how your skills and experience align with the needs of the Center for Puppetry Arts.
Please note any attachment over 10 MB may need to be sent in separate emails.
No phone calls please. If you have questions, please email hr@puppet.org.
The Center for Puppetry Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.