Advancement Officer
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking a full-time Advancement Officer to provide administrative support and prospect research services to Bigelow Laboratory’s Development team. Responsibilities include: data entry and database management; coordinating fundraising mailings; creating mailing lists and donor lists; processing donor acknowledgements; prospect research, mailing list growth, and prospect strategy and tracking projects; event assistance and meeting coordination; and other fundraising support activities. Salary range for this position is $29.21-$42.05 depending on experience.
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences was founded in 1974 as a collective of scientists with the intellectual freedom to pursue knowledge about the vital role and astounding potential of the ocean’s abundant microscopic life. Still true to that cooperative spirit, we are now among the preeminent marine research laboratories in the world.
Our mission is to study the foundation of global ocean health and use our discoveries to improve the future for all life on the planet. Our vision is a world where scientific understanding of the ocean turns the tide on global challenges and unlocks the full potential of the ocean to support our society. To achieve this, we: 1) conduct fundamental research on our oceans, 2) use what we learn to address global issues and opportunities through applied research and commercialization, and 3) engage students of all ages with experiential programs that train tomorrow’s ocean leaders. While our research spans the globe, we use the Gulf of Maine as a cost effective natural laboratory when possible, where we can study change while providing important data to the state of Maine and those who make their living from its waters.
From the Gulf of Maine to Pacific atolls, and from pole to pole, our 21 Senior Research Scientists and their teams are yielding insights in every ocean basin on the planet. We deliver unbiased information and expertise to help inform government policy, mentor the next generation of ocean scientists, and develop technology that will benefit society.
The successful candidate will become a “power user” of our database software, Raiser’s Edge NXT. They will be meticulously detail-oriented, organized, possess strong computer skills, and be familiar with charitable giving and standard development office procedures. A Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of two years’ experience in a Development office support position are required, as well as a high comfort level with Microsoft Office and database software. Other necessary qualifications include: excellent written and verbal communication skills; a professional, friendly demeanor; strong customer service skills; and the ability to follow instructions and manage projects independently. Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge, event coordination, and email marketing platform experience are preferred.
Reporting to the Advancement Grants and Operations Manager, this is a full-time (37.5 hours/week), non-exempt, benefits-eligible position that begins ASAP. After an initial orientation period, this work may be partially done remotely but requires regular hours on site at the East Boothbay office for donation processing, and event and mailing responsibilities. This position will require working occasional evening or weekend events, and may involve light travel.
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences strives to maintain an environment that allows our employees to flourish through respectful, inclusive, and equitable treatment of others. We are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect. Bigelow Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
For full consideration, applications should be received by August 25, 2025. To apply, please upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references through our online application portal.
Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact careers@bigelow.org or (207) 315-2567, ext. 119.