Development Assistant

Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world‑changing mission, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Why join Harvard Law School? Join a community that combines excellence in legal education and scholarship with a deep commitment to justice. Here at Harvard Law School (HLS), you’ll find an environment that values who you are and encourages you to grow, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact. Whether you are at the start of your career or further along, HLS is a place where you can thrive, contribute, and be part of something bigger. Job Description Job Summary The Development team at Harvard Law School is a dynamic fundraising team dedicated to securing philanthropic support to advance the vision and priorities of the Dean of HLS. We are seeking a Development Assistant to support three frontline fundraisers. This position is an integral member of a larger team and has responsibility for a wide range of complex and confidential administrative support duties. The Development Assistant actively participates in major and principal gift work, with a focus on supporting international advancement and planned giving activities. Responsibilities Conduct preliminary prospect research, track solicitation process and progress, and update contact reports. Assist the team in coordinating prospect portfolios and work with major gift officers to identify prospects using prospecting and reporting tools. Schedule meetings/appointments and make travel arrangements. Compile prospect profiles and related briefing materials; support prospect visit follow‑up by preparing correspondence, reports, and adding relevant data to the central prospect database. Prepare travel expenses for processing. Assist with the planning and coordination of leadership events. Respond to donor and alumni inquiries as appropriate. Serve as liaison for HLS administrative offices, alumni, donors, and volunteers. Collaborate and coordinate joint travel and events for major gift initiatives as well as with other fundraising teams. Work closely with other Development Assistants to lead and manage various projects. Prepare materials for presentation and distribution. Perform other duties as necessary. Qualifications Basic Qualifications 3 or more years of experience in a related field. Education beyond high school may count toward experience. Additional Qualifications and Skills Adept at working in a fast‑paced environment, with changing priorities and multiple constituencies. Employ effective communication skills, particularly via phone and email. Maintain discretion when handling confidential information. Handle and prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously; highly organized with sound judgement and strong attention to detail. Effective problem solver and able to represent the department professionally. Work independently with minimal supervision, but also collaborate well with team members. Standard Hours / Schedule 35 hours per week; full‑time, Monday‑Friday. Occasional weekend and evening work may be required. Visa Sponsorship Information Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre‑Employment Screening Identity verification. Location This position is based on campus in Cambridge, MA. A hybrid schedule may be possible based on business needs and supervisor approval, but in‑person support for meetings and events is required. Salary Grade and Ranges Salary grade level 053. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information. Benefits Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support a healthy work‑life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Generous paid time off, including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Well‑being and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks EEO / Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non‑discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non‑discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination. #J-18808-Ljbffr