Advancement Assistant

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences

Operations
Wells, ME, USA
Posted on Mar 18, 2025
Overview
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking a part-time 30 hours a week Advancement Assistant to assist in the planning and execution of events, provide grant writing and reporting support for the BLOOM education programs, and conduct private foundation research. This part time, benefit eligible position will work four days per week, with some evening or weekend events required.

Requirements
Minimum three years of experience in a nonprofit position, preferably in Development
Understanding of nonprofit charitable giving
Event coordination and volunteer management experience
Writing experience, especially for foundation fundraising and event-related outreach
Passion for the mission of Bigelow Laboratory and a desire to further that mission by spreading awareness and helping to fundraise via events
Strong knowledge of Bigelow’s work, ability to translate our science into events and writing, and ability to assess our fit with funding opportunities
Extremely detail oriented, with proven organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines
Logistics skills such as adaptability, the ability to remain calm under pressure and manage stress, effective problem-solving capability, and proficiency in project management
Ability to work professionally, with and across many groups at the Laboratory including major donors, to coordinate successful events and proposals
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
High comfort level with computer software such as MS Office, Zoom, as well as online research
Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge 7 and NXT software experience preferred
Team player with ability to work independently
Bachelor’s degree

Duties and Responsibilities
1. Event Coordination (50%)
a. Plan and execute the 2025 Grand Opening, Splash, and Council Summer Outing events with attention to financial and time constraints, as well as event strategy and organizational values, including: attend, take notes at, and carry out tasks as defined at regular event committee planning meetings; research vendors, book according to quality and cost using negotiation skills when necessary, and communicate plans to stakeholders before contract execution to ensure all insurance, licensure, and payment needs are considered; manage the invitation, RSVP, and guest communications in coordination with the Communications and Advancement teams; identify staffing/volunteer needs and help to advertise and fill those positions internally; manage all event operations including setup, day of, and clean up
b. Print event nametags.
c. In conjunction with fellow Advancement Officer, help maintain event records in database.

2. BLOOM Grant Writing and Reporting (25%)
a. Write and submit letters of inquiry and proposals to foundations for BLOOM education program funding.
b. Oversee BLOOM grants throughout life cycle.
c. Draft reports to BLOOM funders, coordinate mailings, and keep track of BLOOM funder deadlines.
d. Work with Education staff to ensure that BLOOM program proposals and reports are clear, compelling, and accurate, and that grant goals are met.
e. With fellow Advancement Officer, help maintain foundation actions in database.

3. Foundation Prospect Research (25%)
a. In support of broader Advancement fundraising goals and organizational priorities, conduct private foundation prospect research for new funding opportunities utilizing Advancement’s web-based tools and external subscription-based platforms including Candid/Foundation Directory, Instrumentl, iWave/Kindsight, Guidestar, and GrantStation.
b. Summarize foundation research findings for review by Advancement team: Analyze detailed grantmaker histories and financial information. Determine any past Bigelow relationship and connections. Provide fundraisers with data-informed interpretation of the foundation prospect’s fit with Bigelow, likely grant size, and possible initial approach.
c. Work closely with the Advancement Grants & Operations Manager in foundation prospect qualification.
d. Maintain shared proposal and report deadline calendar.
e. Work closely with fellow Advancement Officer to help maintain foundation prospect records in database.

Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references using our online application portal. Interviews will begin immediately and the search will continue until the position is filled.

Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact [email protected] or (207) 315-2567, ext. 107.

Working at Bigelow Laboratory
Bigelow Laboratory is an inclusive community of scientists and science supporters from around the world that welcomes and supports diverse opinions and cultures. Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences strives to maintain an environment that allows our employees to flourish through respectful, inclusive, and equitable treatment of others. We believe there is power in embracing the full diversity of humanity to advance science and are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect. Bigelow Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

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