Who we are

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth. 

Job Summary

The Alumni Engagement Officer is responsible for developing and managing a variety of alumni programs, specifically chapter programs and activities for Rensselaer alumni, parents, and friends. These activities include chapter leadership and volunteer committee development and succession planning, development of regional alumni events, and event-planning and coordination with IA staff. The Engagement Officer manages assigned affinity areas and will support the portfolios philanthropic goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in related field
• 3 or more years experience in relationship management, fundraising, or a related field
• Valid driver's license

 
Relevant combinations of education, experience, and training may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Development or fundraising experience in higher education
   

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to cultivate, solicit and steward donor prospects
• Ability to develop and maintain effective relations with donors, including understanding donor motivation, and developing and sustaining donor commitment
• Demonstrated ability to effectively facilitate discussions and effectively engage in public speaking
• Demonstrated ability to promotes and implement processes to build effective donor relationships
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with others including own team/department, others across the organization and externally where appropriate
• Ability to work effectively individually and as a group/ team member exploring options, making decisions and seeking support when appropriate
• Demonstrated ability to develop and contribute to the use of digitally integrated fundraising activities, effectively use analytics and recognize trends and their potential impacts
• Demonstrated ability to plan and implement programs, projects and/or events including identifying specific requirements and developing project plans
• Ability to work with colleagues and portfolio leadership to implement change initiatives that enhances the donor experience
• Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze and manage relevant information, including prospect research
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet established goals and objectives
• Ability to multi-task, handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office or equivalent
• Ability to learn and use discipline specific technologies including database management software and web-based communication tools

Shift

Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required

Travel

Driving

Driving a personal vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range: $75,000 - $81,946 / yr

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).