Development Associate
DESCRIPTION
ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW
Founded in 2011, Pacific Opera Project (POP) is a Los Angeles-based company committed to producing accessible, affordable, and entertaining opera for all. Embarking on its 15th Anniversary Season, POP has earned a national reputation for bold productions, imaginative direction, and a joyful approach to the art form. The Los Angeles Times recently included POP among the “Best of 2024 in Classical Music.” POP presents a dynamic mix of reimagined classics and groundbreaking new works in venues ranging from outdoor gardens and historic theaters to intimate clubs and community spaces. With consistently sold-out performances, a devoted and expanding audience, and enthusiastic critical acclaim, POP is widely recognized as one of the most exciting opera companies in the country.
POSITION SUMMARY
Pacific Opera Project (POP) seeks a highly organized and detail-oriented development professional to join our team as a Development Associate. This part-time role is essential in advancing POP’s fundraising and audience development efforts, supporting our long-term donor and audience growth strategies. The ideal candidate is a sharp communicator and strong writer who can craft donor messaging and audience communications. They possess a keen eye for detail, enjoy catching errors, and have the analytical skills to generate and interpret reports that guide strategy. With a dual focus on donor engagement and audience development, this position blends thoughtful relationship-building with data-informed decision-making. Working closely with the Executive Director, as well as the Digital & Social Media Coordinator, the Development Associate will support donor stewardship, corporate sponsorships, grants research, patron data management, and segmented email communications.
This is a part-time position at 15–20 hours per week, at a rate of $25/hour.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Donor Engagement & Stewardship
Assist in cultivating and maintaining relationships with lower and mid-level individual donors, personalizing communications to build long-term engagement
Support stewardship efforts, including acknowledgment letters, thank-you calls, and donor updates
Pursue new corporate sponsorship opportunities and develop relationships with businesses to support POP’s programs
Manage business ad sales for POP’s programs
Donor Database Management:
Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records in POP’s patron database, Neon CRM, and our ticketing database, Arts People
Generate and analyze reports
Research and Grant Support:
Research potential individual, corporate, and foundation prospects
Manage the annual grant calendar, ensuring timely submissions and tracking deadlines
Assist with data collection and management to support grant reporting requirements
Donor Event Support:
Collaborate with the Executive Director and POP team on planning and executing donor events (receptions, salons, luncheons), including POPaganza
Assist with event outreach, guest list management, and on-site logistics
Audience Development & Patron Journey
Establish and manage the patron pipeline journey by analyzing audience data to identify segments and create tailored communication strategies
Draft email communications to donors and audience members, supported by the marketing team
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in arts or related field
Minimum 2 years in development or membership position in nonprofit setting
Basic understanding of fundraising techniques and best practices
Demonstrated passion for and knowledge of art and culture
Excellent written communication skills, copywriting experience a plus
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Proficiency in using donor databases and fundraising software
Strong research skills
Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets
Collaborative and enthusiastic team player with the ability to work independently
Desired Start Date: June 2, 2025
BENEFITS
Pay Range: $25 - $25 Hourly
Retirement Savings: Employees can participate in CalSavers, California’s retirement program, with automatic payroll deductions into a personal, portable account. Contributions are employee-funded.
HOW TO APPLY
Please email cover letter and resume to kpowers@pacificoperaproject.com.
Application Deadline: May 9, 2025
Application Email/Link: kpowers@pacificoperaproject.com
JOB CONTACT
kpowers@pacificoperaproject.com