Fundraising Events Manager

Company: Exploratorium
Location: San Francisco
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description SUMMARY The Fundraising Events Manager is a member of the Institutional Advancement (IA) department, who works collaboratively across the department and the museum, to assist in the planning and execution of fundraising, cultivation, and stewardship events. This position is essential for a coordinated approach to moving prospects and donors/sponsors for each of the giving programs through a pipeline of content-driven engagement opportunities. The Fundraising Events Manager works collaboratively with IA and other departments including marketing, rentals, operations, facilities, graphics, and program development. This position reports to the Director, Fundraising Events. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Contribute to the established event fundraising goals as the lead planner for 1-2 annual fundraisers (Wonder Funday, Phenomenal Ball, and After Party) and act as production support for other cultivation and engagement events Engage in volunteer recruitment, budget management, program content development, event and communication collateral production, and logistics for assigned events Collaborate on the distributed events model and support IA team on event planning including: logistics, print and electronic outreach, CRM and RSVP tracking, event content planning, donor communications, vendor management, etc. Attend department meetings to discuss fundraising strategies and make recommendations on cultivation and solicitation opportunities Represent the fundraising events team at institution-wide meetings as needed Coordinate internal staff and aid in set-up and break-down of each event Serve as a liaison across the institution to execute and collaborate on events with departments including marketing, rentals, operations, facilities, graphics, and public programs Manage event timelines and logistics for lead-up and day of event support including guest list research and development, invitations (print and electronic), RSVP tracking, program planning, coordinating catering, name tags, and other duties as assigned Manage the dedicated donor space (Rock Learning Commons) Some night and weekend work required Special fundraising events projects as needed Additional duties as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience 2-3 years in fundraising events experience in a nonprofit, educational or museum environment Proven proficiency in dealing with high-level volunteers and board members Knowledge of best practices in fundraising Ability to work well in a team environment and to liaise effectively with staff in departments throughout the museum Ability to negotiate with vendors and outside consultants as needed Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills Ability to manage complex event budgets and annual expense budgets Knowledge of science learning preferred, and knowledge of arts and education helpful Ability to work independently, prioritize, and manage multiple projects Highly organized and detail-oriented Demonstrated ability to conceive and execute complex donor events requiring coordination of multiple stakeholders Possession of excellent problem-solving skills Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Word and Excel; Google Suite preferred); proficiency with database systems (Salesforce) PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position is based in San Francisco, California with staff expected to work onsite a certain number of days per week based on department requirements Ability to move from place to place, use a computer terminal and telephone, lift and carry up to 25 pounds short distances APPLICATION DEADLINE The position is open until filled HOW TO APPLY This is a regular, full-time (37.5 hours per week), non-exempt, union position that includes benefits. The starting range for this role is $41.94 to 44.43. This range represents steps 1-3 on a 6 step union pay scale. Please, no phone calls in regards to this job. To apply, please visit the Exploratorium job page. The Exploratorium is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, inclusion and respect. We welcome and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Exploratorium Piers 15/17, San Francisco, CA 94111 Website: https://www.exploratorium.edu/about/jobs. No phone calls, please The Exploratorium is committed to an inclusive workforce. Powered by JazzHR MupFRD2aU5

Keywords: Exploratorium, Fairfield , Fundraising Events Manager, PR / Public Relations , San Francisco, California