Director of Development

Montana Outdoor Science School

Director of Development Job Description 

Position: Director of Development 
Location: MOSS office, Bozeman, MT (on-site)
Reports to: Executive Director
Status: 1 FTE (40 hours/week), Exempt 
Compensation: $60,000 - $70,000 annual

Summary Description

Reporting to and in partnership with the Executive Director (ED), the Development Director (Director) will spearhead development efforts as Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS) continues to sustainably grow the services we provide to our community. As a new position in the organization, the Director will co-lead the expansion of development efforts from primarily grants and events to a more robust array of activities, including corporate, foundation, and individual giving. The Director will expand development functions that include annual funds, events, identifying and engaging individual donors, building and implementing a stewardship program, and supporting the development of key messaging.

Mission and Governance and Priorities

Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS) is a non-profit organization based in Bozeman, MT, that inspires curiosity, awareness, and understanding of nature and science through quality outdoor educational experiences. Established in 1994, MOSS facilitates outdoor science experiences for over 6,000 students (young and older) throughout Montana. We engage people through outdoor scientific exploration and learning, and prepare people of all ages to care for this extraordinary place we call home.

MOSS is governed by a 12-member Board of Directors and the Executive Director.  Year-round staff includes:  a Program Director who manages ~20 summer instructors; an Education Director responsible for an Education Specialist, 2 Lead Instructors and ~12 school-year instructors; a Community Engagement Manager; and an Administrative Assistant. For more information, please visit the MOSS website.

MOSS’s strategic priorities include offering quality educational experiences to urban, rural, and under-resourced persons across Montana. We aim to be a growing, thriving, healthy organization with the capacity and financial resources to provide dynamic leadership and exceptional environmental programming. 

MOSS values strong, diverse partnerships and inclusive community involvement. The organization is recognized as a leader in outdoor science education. These strategic priorities help guide our decisions, intentions, and interactions with students, adult learners, volunteers, staff, board, parents, community stakeholders, and one another. 

The Development Director will promote a strong, compelling case of need for environmental education philanthropy and build opportunities to create and sustain a culture that understands the relationship between philanthropy and the health of our environment.

Fundraising. The Development Director will work closely with the Executive Director and the Fundraising & Events Committee of the Board, on all aspects of fundraising, including grant-writing, individual solicitations, annual appeal, metrics, and fundraising events. Together the Development Director and ED will develop and execute an annual fundraising plan that meets fundraising goals and provides MOSS with necessary financial resources. Regular reporting on progress toward fund-raising goals is essential.

Relationships. An approachable, supportive, and inspirational individual who understands the importance of building effective and authentic relationships that translate into long-term, impactful partnerships, alignment, and fundraising results. They are an active listener who fosters participation, engagement, and inclusion of the perspective of others. Additionally, the Director will build culture through a spirit of teamwork and comradery. 

Communications. Contributes to a robust communications plan that delivers clear, concise, and consistent messaging and voice in all print and online communications.  The Director will celebrate MOSS events, and share appreciation for partners, stakeholders, and supporters. 

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute MOSS’s annual fundraising plan, including 3-4 general fundraising events/year and 2-3 major donor events/year.
• Research, initiate, and develop relationships with major donors (individuals, corporations, and foundations).
• Write grants to exceed the recent annual reception of ~$100k - $200k.
• Solicit sponsorships and individual donations.
• Implement an annual giving plan that expands organizational messaging and builds a growing base of annual fund supporters.
• Manage use of Little Green Light (MOSS’s donor operating system).
• Develop and track proposals and reports for all foundation and corporate fundraising.
• Participate in team building and community engagement activities (Nature Quest + Online Auction, Watershed Festival, Give Big Gallatin Valley, among others).
• This job description is not a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. All employees are responsible for and assist with additional tasks as needed.

Qualifications

This individual has an enthusiasm for outdoor education and has a successful track record in non-profit fundraising and leadership, including major gifts and grant writing, as well as donor identification, cultivation, and stewardship. Experience in Outdoor Education is preferred. The candidate should possess a mindset of openness to advancing MOSS diversity, inclusion, and equity initiatives. This person is able to work a flexible schedule when needed with occasional in-state travel. The candidate possesses these behavioral traits and attitudes: leader, team player, outgoing, organized, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, self-motivated, passionate about MOSS’s mission, and environmentally concerned and aware. This person isn’t afraid to have fun and to encourage others to get their hands dirty!

• BA or BS (required), MA or MS (preferred)
• 3+ years experience in development with demonstrated success with fund-raising projects
• Experience with event planning, production, and event management
• Demonstrated excellence in organizational, managerial, and communication (written and oral) skills
• Ability to set priorities, manage diverse, simultaneous activities, and meet deadlines
• Experience with donor database systems
• Valid driver's license and auto insurance 

Compensation and Benefits

The Director of Development position is a full-time, exempt position with an annual salary range of $60,000 to $70,000, commensurate with past work experience. MOSS provides a wide range of benefits as part of the total compensation package, including:

• 100% paid health, dental, and vision insurance. Physical and mental wellbeing are important to us.
• Eligibility for a 3% retirement match after the first year of employment.  Future well-being is just as important.
• Professional development funds. All staff members are expected to grow in their positions. MOSS offers funds for professional development sought out by each staff member.
• Flexible work schedule. Though the Development Director is expected to be present, the Executive Director will work with the candidate to accommodate the realities of life.
• MOSS program discounts. Discounts for summer camps, PIR days, Master Naturalist, Mindfulness in Nature, or other applicable courses.
• Access to ExpertVoice pro deals. The Director may spend time outside with donors, so solid outdoor gear is a must.

To Apply:

Submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references via email to jerikson@outdoorscience.org. You will be contacted shortly after your application is received with feedback and next steps. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.  

Equal Opportunity Statement

MOSS celebrates diversity and is committed to building teams and partnerships that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. A wider range of perspectives and backgrounds will help make MOSS a richer, more productive organization.  We believe that all employees and applicants should be treated with dignity and respect. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. MOSS will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship to the organization. 

We acknowledge that some candidates may not feel their professional experience and skills are a close match for this role.  We are aware that women and people of color are documented to be less likely to apply for jobs when they do not meet every qualification.  Persons from all backgrounds, and specifically those from traditionally marginalized and/or underrepresented groups, are encouraged to apply.  Please apply if you are passionate about this work and our mission calls to you.