Development Associate

New York, NY, NY
Full Time
Mid Level
POSITION: Development Associate
EXEMPT STATUS: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Development Operations Manager
LOCATION: 212 West 83rd Street, New York, NY 10024
WEBSITE: www.CMOM.org

ABOUT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MANHATTAN

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is a steward of early childhood, helping all children grow and develop into their best selves. Through our programs on-site, online, and around the five boroughs, CMOM nurtures the next generation of creative global citizens as they learn through exploration and play. Our offerings embrace the intersection of the arts, sciences, and humanities and include exhibitions, classes, workshops, performances, and festivals. Our programs and exhibits are designed to address the multiple ways children learn and to help parents understand and support their children’s development. CMOM’S special areas of focus include early childhood education, creativity, health, and world cultures. The museum’s programming reflects the rich cultural diversity, energy, and resilience of New York City itself and we aim to ensure our programs are available to those families who might not otherwise have access.

Founded in 1973 as a neighborhood organization, CMOM has grown over the years into a beloved destination and resource for children, families, and educators from across the five boroughs and from around the world. The museum welcomes 350,000 visitors each year to its Upper West Side location and engages hundreds of thousands more through its outreach programs in partnership with schools, libraries, shelters, and Head Start centers throughout New York City; its touring exhibitions; and its online tools and curricula.

CMOM is now in the midst of an exciting transformation, with a new museum under development at 96th Street and Central Park West and growing citywide impact through its outreach, public programs, and educational partnerships. The new museum is expected to open by the end of 2028, supported by a major capital campaign and strategic investment to expand its fundraising team and infrastructure.

ABOUT THE POSITION

CMOM seeks a detail-oriented and highly organized Development Associate to join a high-performing Development team dedicated to the Museum’s mission and key priorities. Reporting to the Development Operations Manager, the Development Associate will play a key role in managing donor records, processing gifts, supporting special events and individual giving, and providing administrative and operational support to the Development team. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the museum’s mission while gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, database management, and event planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Gift Processing & Data Management

  • Process all incoming gifts and pledges in CMOM’s CRM (Raiser’s Edge), ensuring accurate donor records and alignment with financial records.
  • Generate and track donor acknowledgments, ensuring timely and personalized stewardship.
  • Maintain data integrity through regular audits, updates to donor records, and adherence to database best practices.
  • Maintain internal tracking systems to support timely donor follow-up and stewardship actions.
  • Enter and track donor and prospect interactions, supporting the development team’s moves management efforts.
  • Generate and distribute basic development reports as needed

Development Finance & Operations
 
  • Track and process department expenses, including invoices, credit card activity, and staff reimbursements.
  • Assist with reconciliation of development revenue and expenses in coordination with the Finance team.
  • Track pledge receivables, including monitoring outstanding commitments and supporting follow-up on collections.
  • Coordinate scheduling and meeting preparation for the Development Director, including internal and donor meetings.
  • Support day-to-day operations of the development team, including ordering supplies, executing donor mailings, and coordinating administrative needs.
  • Respond to donor inquiries and provide general customer service support.

General Development Support
 
  • Support individual giving efforts, including drafting donor communications such as emails and letters.
  • Conduct basic research on prospective donors and corporate/foundation funding opportunities.
  • Support the planning and execution of fundraising and donor cultivation events, including the annual Gala, Sunday Funday, and member events.
  • Assist with guest management, including invitations, RSVPs, seating, and event-related data tracking in Raiser’s Edge and event platforms.
  • Provide on-site support at events, including set-up, donor check-in, and guest experience coordination.
  • Contribute to special projects and cross-team initiatives as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS
 
  • A passion for the mission of CMOM with a collaborative, creative, and entrepreneurial spirit
  • 2+ years of development, fundraising, or nonprofit experience, preferably in gift processing, data management, or events.
  • Experience working with a CRM or donor database required; experience with Raiser’s Edge strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Classy, Excel, and event management platforms a plus.
  • Superior organizational skills and strong attention to detail and accuracy, including expert-level proofreading and editing.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills. Customer service experience is a plus.
  • Ability to uphold fundraising ethics and respect confidentiality of donor information.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for event coverage.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.

COMPENSATION

Compensation is $55,000-$65,000 commensurate with experience. Hybrid position.

BENEFITS

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage

    • Free medical coverage for employees, with premium plan options available for dependents

  • 403(b) retirement plan and life insurance

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Paid time off, including holidays, vacation, personal time, and sick leave

  • Voluntary benefits available, including:

    • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

    • Critical illness insurance

    • Accident insurance

    • Legal services

    • Pet insurance

  • Free admission to participating New York City cultural institutions for CMOM employees

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage people from all backgrounds, ages, abilities, and experiences to apply. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If, due to a disability, you need accommodation during any part of the interview process, please let your recruiter know.

Background checks will be completed on all employees. 
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