Major Gift Associate
Cornell University | |
72,209.00 - $83,447.00
| |
United States, New York, Ithaca | |
Apr 02, 2026 | |
|
The Major Gift Associate (MGA) is a key member of a newly formed "pod" staff structure, supporting the Brooks School of Public Policy, the Johnson Museum of Art, and the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning within Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division. Reporting to the Pod Leader, the MGA partners closely with Chief Development Officers (CDOs), Major Gift Officers (MGOs), and engagement staff to advance fundraising and engagement priorities across all three units.
This role is integral to the pod's success, supporting the full arc of the donor lifecycle: from prospect identification and research to cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. The MGA prepares compelling written materials, coordinates donor engagement activities, and ensures timely follow-through on critical advancement work. The ideal candidate brings a collaborative, service-oriented mindset, strong writing skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for working across multiple colleges and institutional priorities. Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division, widely regarded as one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, connects alumni, parents, and friends with opportunities to advance the university's mission through philanthropy and engagement. This position represents a unique opportunity to help launch an innovative model designed to maximize fundraising impact. Pod teams are grounded in defined goals, clear communication, mutual accountability, and a culture of experimentation, celebration, and continuous growth. Join our team of dedicated professionals committed to excellence and educational advancement at one of the world's leading universities. This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Employees typically perform this role remotely 3 days per week and on-campus 2 days per week. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke, or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Cornell is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit hr.cornell.edu/eeo. Key Responsibilities:
Required Qualifications:
Preferred qualifications include experience in higher education development, a working knowledge of fundraising concepts and principles, and experience supporting multiple leaders or organizational units. Essential Working Conditions:
University Job Title: Gift Associate IIJob Family: Alumni Affairs DevelopmentLevel: FPay Rate Type: SalaryPay Range: $72,209.00 - $83,447.00Remote Option Availability: HybridCompany: EndowedContact Name: Rachel ColunioContact Email: rg50@cornell.eduJob Titles and Pay Ranges: Non-Union Positions Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
To learn more about Cornell's non-union staff job titles and pay ranges, see Career Navigator. Union Positions The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined in accordance with the rates in the respective collective bargaining agreement. To learn more about Cornell's union wages, see Union Pay Rates. Current Employees: If you currently work at Cornell University, please exit this website and log in to Workday using your Net ID and password. Select the Career icon on your Home dashboard to view jobs at Cornell. Online Submission Guidelines: Most positions at Cornell will require you to apply online and submit both a resume/CV and cover letter. You can upload documents either by "dragging and dropping" them into the dropbox or by using the "upload" icon on the application page. For more detailed instructions on how to apply to a job at Cornell, visit How We Hire on the HR website. Employment Assistance: For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or email mycareer@cornell.edu. If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@cornell.edu. Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment, at the Ithaca campus, by emailing mycareer@cornell.edu. Notice to Applicants: Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant. EEO Statement: Cornellwelcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of "... any person ... any study." No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeksjob candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. Wehire based on merit, andencourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. 2026-04-02 | |
72,209.00 - $83,447.00
Apr 02, 2026