Development Fundraising Associate – Michigan

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., the continent’s leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation, seeks a Development Fundraising Associate in Michigan to advance fundraising priorities and deepen donor engagement in support of DU’s conservation mission. Primary responsibilities include:

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects and donors in support of Ducks Unlimited’s conservation priorities.
• Partner with development and event fundraising staff to grow awareness of DU’s major gift program and philanthropic support across Michigan.
• Collaborate with DU leadership to engage and support volunteers in major gift fundraising efforts.
• Serve as the primary staff liaison for the Michigan State Campaign Committee.
• Plan and execute donor cultivation and stewardship events that deepen engagement and advance fundraising results.
• Meet performance goals established through an annual work plan, including donor activity, pipeline development, and revenue objectives.

The ideal candidate will bring at least one year of fundraising or related experience, preferably in a nonprofit or mission-driven environment, along with a strong appreciation for conservation and the outdoors. Additional qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Demonstrated strength in relationship building, interpersonal communication, and collaborative engagement
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent the organization professionally and persuasively
• Ability to provide thoughtful leadership and guidance to volunteers and key stakeholders
• A results-oriented mindset with a high degree of initiative, professionalism, and accountability
• Proficiency with standard business applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and database management systems

Successful candidates will be self-starters who work well independently and collaboratively and bring the judgment, discipline, and initiative needed to succeed in a dynamic fundraising environment. Familiarity with the DU event system, fundraising event experience, local community relationships, and an interest in outdoor conservation are strongly valued. Candidates must be willing to travel throughout Michigan and reside in a mutually agreed-upon location within Region 3. To Apply: Please fill out all application materials and attach a cover letter describing your interest in the position, your resume, and three professional references. A cover letter is required for consideration. Resume review will begin on July 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Benefits/Pay: Pay will be based on experience and education with a variable compensation incentive program. DU offers an exceptional benefit package, including comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage; three weeks paid vacation, paid sick leave, and ten paid holidays; 401(k) plan (including partial employer match); and tuition reimbursement. DUCKS UNLIMITED, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, military status, disability, age, or genetic information, except where age or gender is a bona fide occupational qualification as allowed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 or over), disability (physical, mental or visual), genetic information, marital status (including registered domestic partnership status), military and veteran status, immigration status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.