Development Assistant

Job Title: Development Assistant (Part-Time)
Hours: 20 hours per week, hourly pay
Location: Hybrid – 412 East 2nd Street (Pop Up Museum) and Remote
Reports to: Pam Reed, Executive Director

Overview:
The Houston Museum of Decorative Arts is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Development Assistant to support fundraising and donor engagement efforts during an exciting period of growth and transition. This part-time position (20 hours/week) plays a key role in maintaining our donor database, coordinating appeals and acknowledgments, supporting events, and helping build strong relationships with supporters of the Museum, with room for growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain and update donor records in the database with accuracy and confidentiality
• Process incoming donations and generate timely acknowledgment letters
• Research potential donors and prospects
• Compile and create folders and marketing materials for development prospect meetings
• Assist in writing, formatting, and mailing donor appeal letters and other communications
• Collaborate with the team and board to brainstorm and implement creative donor engagement strategies
• Help track donor engagement and outreach, including invitations to exhibits, programs, and events
• Help identify and research appropriate grant opportunities that align with the Museum’s goals
• Assist in drafting grant-related materials and coordinating application timelines and requirements
• Support planning and execution of special events, including the annual Antiques Show & Sale, the Museum’s largest fundraiser
• Provide general administrative support for the museum staff and board as needed
• Assist with other data entry and filing
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Previous experience with donor databases or CRM platforms
• Strong writing and communication skills, especially in crafting donor correspondence
• Experience with mail merges and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Comfort with event planning logistics and working in a team setting during live events
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to detail and deadlines
• A friendly, professional, and proactive attitude when engaging with donors and volunteers
• Interest in museums, decorative arts, or nonprofit work is a plus
• Experience with capital campaigns is a plus