The Grand Traverse Conservation District (GTCD) is seeking a relationship-driven Communications & Development Specialist to grow philanthropic support for our mission and strengthen how we connect with donors, partners, volunteers, and the broader community. Based at the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, GTCD works across conservation, environmental education, sustainable agriculture, and community engagement. Our mission is to lead, facilitate, and inspire exploration, appreciation, conservation, and restoration of our natural world.

Position Summary: Reporting to the Executive Director, this position will lead and support fundraising, donor development, communications, and community engagement efforts. The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator and relationship-builder who can inspire people to support GTCD’s work and help expand our base of donors and supporters.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising & Development
● Develop and implement strategies for annual giving, sustaining donors, major gifts, and fundraising campaigns.
● Cultivate and steward relationships with current and prospective donors, businesses, and foundations.
● Develop annual appeals, donor communications, and compelling cases for support.
● Assist with grant research, writing, and submissions.
● Coordinate donor recognition, fundraising events, and other engagement opportunities.

Communications & Outreach
● Lead GTCD’s organizational communications, branding, marketing, website, social media, and public relations efforts.
● Develop compelling content for newsletters, annual reports, press releases, fundraising materials, and digital communications.
● Help increase GTCD’s visibility and communicate the impact of our work throughout the community.

Community & Volunteer Engagement
● Build relationships with community partners, volunteers, supporters, and local businesses.
● Supervise the Outreach & Giving Coordinator.

Qualifications
● Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
● Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in fundraising, nonprofit development, communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field.
● Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
● Demonstrated ability to build relationships and manage projects from concept through completion.
● Fundraising, donor-management software, grant writing, graphic design, or video experience is preferred.
● Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.

COMPENSATION
The Conservation Director position is a full time, 40 hours/week, FLSA exempt position. Base salary: $50,000-$60,000/year, commensurate with experience. Benefits include paid holidays, 18 paid days off per year, retirement, and the Conservation District’s group health insurance package including dental and vision.

The Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate in employment, promotions, or compensation on the basis of race, sex, color,  religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability status, protected veteran status,  sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal,  state or local laws.