Job Description

Development Officer

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Development Officer.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg



118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States


Division Development Office


Position Type Staff


Employment Status Full Time


Grant Funded No


Pay Grade
E10





Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for three (3) references when applying for this position.



Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Development Officer develops charitable support for the University through the USM Foundation.This position identifies prospects, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors to raise major gifts of $25,000 or more in support of University objectives while meeting defined visit and solicitation goals and working closely with the Chief Development Officer, deans, faculty, staff, volunteers and other key stakeholders to achieve those goals, by working with guidance from supervisors.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Identifies, cultivates, solicits and stewards alumni and other donors to include development and implementation of prospect strategy, preparation of written materials, direct solicitation, and, if appropriate, solicitation in tandem with others. Engages deans, University faculty and staff, and others in advancement efforts, as required. Stewards relationships with existing donors. Maintains records of visits, solicitations, and cultivation statuses in accordance with system requirements and Foundation protocols. Records detailed interaction of all visits and prospect management including proposals to prospects and gifts donated to the Foundation. Manages a portfolio of prospective donors with input and assistance from the Chief Development Officer. Works with Research team to identify new prospects for major and planned gifts to build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospects. Ensures all assigned prospects are managed effectively and adjusts strategy as needed. Meets defined visit, solicitation and gift closure goals. Exercises and promotes good judgment, discretion in interactions and application of ethics related to development activities. Manages an expense budget to optimize utilization of resources to achieve stated goals. Plans and implements personal travel, as necessary. Completes expense submittals on a timely basis. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with at least one year of development or similar experience at a university or other comparable fundraising organization, or equivalent professional experience in outside sales. Must have a valid MS driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Employees of this position are prohibited from disclosing confidential and proprietary information of donors and prospects, the Foundation, the University and its employees or students. This confidentiality obligation is effective while employed in this position and continues after termination of employment.
Self-motivated, enthusiastic and accountable for results Reliable and punctual Honest and cooperative Professional and respectful Organized and able to multitask; skill in managing one's own time Results-driven to accomplish individual and team goals and meet deadlines Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence Good attention to detail Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate and interact effectively with everyone Ability to clearly and persuasively communicate concepts, respond to questions, and garner the confidence of stakeholders Ability to remain agile in a dynamic workflow Ability to respond to inquiries or complaints from constituents Ability to work before and after normal business hours, including weekends Ability to travel or complete overnight stays Seeks opportunities for professional development Effectively engages and interacts with others to collaborate and provide value-added support that enhances results and team effectiveness Ability to process and handle confidential information with discretion

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree from an accredited college or university.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.



Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.




We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.



The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.