Development Associate

Development Associate

Shimon & Sara Birnbaum JCC (Bridgewater, NJ)
Full-time · Exempt · Reports to: Development Director

About the J

The Shimon & Sara Birnbaum JCC (SSBJCC) is a vibrant, inclusive hub for community, inspired by Jewish values and open to all. We offer early childhood education, camp, fitness & aquatics, special needs programming, arts & culture, and year-round community engagement. We’re growing our culture of philanthropy to expand access, strengthen programs, and provide scholarships.

The Role

The Development Associate will work alongside the Development Director on fundraising strategies, stewardship and donor relationship building. You will assist with the annual development plan to drive revenue across annual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and events.

What You’ll Do

• Plan FRD: Assist in building an annual development plan across individual giving, major gifts, grants, corporate support, and events.
• Major Gifts Portfolio: Assist with managing and growing a focused portfolio of prospects and donors
• Events & Sponsorships: Assist with Special Events to plan mission-aligned fundraising and stewardship events that advance campaign goals.
• Data & Systems: Assist other development staff to ensure timely gift processing, acknowledgments, and accurate CRM records; use data to track KPIs and inform strategy and report to leadership.
• Collaboration & Culture: Work cross-functionally to embed philanthropy across the J; staff development-related committees; equip leadership and volunteers with materials and assignments.
• Communications: Assist with messaging through Marketing Team to deliver clear donor messaging.

· Other Duties as assigned

What You’ll Bring

• 2+ years of progressive development experience preferred
• (JCC/Jewish nonprofit experience a plus), including major gifts and campaigns.
• Shows up with positivity, integrity, and commitment. Models professionalism, adaptability, and a can-do attitude that inspires those around them.
• Demonstrated success building relationships; confident, mission-driven solicitor who builds trust and long-term relationships with donors and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and in collaboration with colleagues and lay leaders.
• Organized and Detail-Oriented: Strong planning, project management, and analytical skills; comfortable setting goals and reporting on progress.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; donor-centric stewardship mindset.
• Identify new opportunities for donor engagement, campaign design, and storytelling. Embraces innovation in fundraising practices and tools.
• Proficiency with Bloomerang or ability to easily learn and Microsoft Office; attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Ability to work when needed on evenings/weekends for donor meetings and events.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Competitive salary based on experience
• Benefits: Comprehensive health and PTO package; JCC membership perks; professional development opportunities.

To Apply

Please send a resume and a brief cover letter sharing why you’re excited about the SSBJCC mission to Melea Henig, MHenig@ssbjcc.org . Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.