Development Research Analyst

Development Research Analyst

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the city of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which comprises the faculty, students, and staff that make the university a prime place to learn, grow, and succeed.

University Advancement is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture in which all advancement staff and our stakeholders have the opportunity to connect, belong, and grow while supporting the University of Southern California’s mission, values, and goals. 

University Advancement is seeking a Development Research Analyst to join its Development Research team. The Development Research team performs specialized background research and due diligence in support of the University’s fundraising priorities, operating as a critical partner to the University’s wider advancement community. Reporting to a director of development research, the incumbent will operate as a lead research specialist for assigned priorities, conducting complex research and providing reports/briefings to best equip development officers and other stakeholders with the tools to advance fundraising initiatives.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and succeeds through collaboration, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence for self and others.

This is a hybrid position under our current work arrangement plan, with the expectation of on-site presence in our downtown Los Angeles office (USC Tower).

Responsibilities

• Serve as the point person for fundraising partners on research requests and prospecting aligned with USC’s fundraising priorities.

• Compose detailed research materials on prospects and assign estimated gift capacity ratings based on comprehensive wealth analysis.

• Produce briefings for senior university officials for events, dinners, and other interactions with important donors and prospects.

• Assist in broad prospect screenings for the identification of new prospects and the qualification of existing ones, and with other projects related to growing and refining the prospect pipeline.

• Partner with fundraisers and colleagues in Relationship Management to analyze and help refine portfolios.

• Ensure adherence to ethical development research practices and applicable data privacy laws and regulations, including but not limited to HIPAA.

• Perform other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

• 1-3 years of development research, prospect management, or prospect development experience in a higher education, healthcare, or complex non-profit environment; or comparable experience in a relevant field associated with research and writing.

• The ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

• A passion for excellent customer service, commitment to exceptional quality, and the ability to complete projects and achieve goals in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with fundraising CRMs (preferably Salesforce) and wealth screening.

• Familiarity with the suite of online resources used in the course of development research, including but not limited to iWave/PRO, LexisNexis, and RelSci.

• The ability to interpret and analyze SEC filings, 990 filings, etc.

• A strategic thinker who is effective in moving strategic agendas and politically savvy.

• The ability to work well with all levels of management, both internally and externally, be flexible in nature, and have a sound judgment with a collaborative style that fosters teamwork and cooperation beyond the immediate team to the broader organization.

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment USC’s Unifying Values of integrity, excellence, diversity, equity and inclusion, well-being, open communication and accountability.

Required Documents and Additional Information

Resume and cover letter required (may be uploaded as one file). Please do not submit your application without these documents.

The budgeted salary range for this position is $72,500 – $74,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations. 

USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff & their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions once you meet Program's eligibility; tuition benefits for staff & their family; free professional development online courses; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses & free tram pick up services; discounts to football, basketball & other campus events.

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree Minimum Experience: 2 years Preferred Education: Master's degree Preferred Experience: 3 years