Development Database Specialist (Temporary) Save

Description

Portland Japanese Garden seeks a detail-oriented and highly organized Temporary Development Database Specialist to support the Development team during a high-volume period. This role focuses on database management, reporting, and administrative support, with primary responsibilities focused on working in Tessitura.

The ideal candidate is very comfortable working in a donor database (Tessitura preferred). They are accurate, efficient, comfortable with data, and able to manage multiple tasks with care and discretion. This position reports to the Philanthropy Manager and is hybrid, between WFH and at our Sylvan Office (1730 SW Skyline).

Primary Duties

Database and Gift Processing

• Enter and process memberships and gifts in Tessitura
• Review and verify gift batches for accuracy
• Maintain donor records and update contact information
• Support acknowledgment processes as needed
• Update event RSVPs
• Update notes in Plans moves management tracking

Reporting and List Management

• Pull donor, membership, and campaign lists from Tessitura
• Generate routine and ad hoc reports and dashboards
• Prepare mailing and event invitation lists
• Assist with prospect and portfolio research support
• Ensure data integrity across queries and exports

Administrative Support

• Maintain confidentiality of donor information
• Other administrative tasks as assigned

Other Responsibilities

• Familiarize oneself with the organization and the Employee Handbook
• Get to know fellow staff members, developing trust, establishing credibility, encouraging teamwork, and creating an atmosphere of open, honest, two-way communication
• Serve as a role model for Garden volunteers, providing support and encouragement to volunteers in their roles across the Garden
• Maintain a high level of professionalism in manner and appearance
• Adhere to Garden Dress Code

Qualifications

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the position, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for this role.

• Experience working with Tessitura strongly preferred
• Experience with CRM fundraising databases required
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong Excel skills; comfort with data exports and formatting
• Ability to manage repetitive tasks with consistency and care
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Commitment to discretion and confidentiality

Special Requirements

• Experience in nonprofit development or fundraising
• Familiarity with donor stewardship practices
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Calm under pressure; adaptable during busy periods

Compensation & Schedule

• Wage: $20.00 - $24.00/hour
• Duration: 3 months
• This is a temporary, part-time, hourly position with approximately 20 hours per week.
• Benefits:
• a household membership to the Garden
• reciprocal access to other area attractions, such as Portland Art Museum, OMSI, and Oregon Zoo
• a 30% discount on most items in the gift shop
• incentives for using alternative transportation to commute to work
• free access to the Employee Assistance Program
• paid sick time
• eligible for the company 401k plan upon completion of 500 hours in the first 6 months of employment (4% employer match after 1 year of service)

Transportation

The Garden is located at 611 SW Kingston Avenue, in Washington Park. Below are the transportation options for staff commuting to the Garden:

• Parking: Staff may park in the numbered spaces throughout Washington Park, which require payment. Additionally, staff may request parking permits from Washington Park. The Garden subsidizes a portion of the cost for parking permits; the cost for staff is $75 during the high season (March – September) and $50 during the low season (October – February).
• Bus Passes: For staff who take public transit as their primary means of commuting to the Garden, we provide paid bus passes. Full-time staff receive a monthly TriMet pass, and part-time staff receive daily passes, based on their work schedule.
• Transportation Stipend: Staff who take any form of alternative transit to get to work qualify for a $5 daily stipend. This includes taking public transit, walking, biking, carpooling, or getting dropped off. The only staff who do not qualify for the stipend are those who are receiving a bus pass through the Garden.

Applications

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three work-related references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please no phone calls or hand delivered applications. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

All submitted applications will be held in confidence.

About the Organization

Portland Japanese Garden is renowned as the most authentic and finest Japanese garden outside of Japan. The Garden typically has a year-round staff of 95+ FTE's and 35+ seasonal staff, supplemented by over 200 volunteers. All of our staff play a vital role in helping our visitors experience the beauty and tranquility of the garden and expand their understanding of Japanese culture.

A few of the benefits our employees enjoy include:

• Working for a beautiful, authentic Japanese garden, overlooking the city
• Incentives for alternative transportation for your commute to work (applies only to those working at the campuses in Washington Park)
• A workplace culture that prioritizes hiring and promoting from within
• Access to the Garden for you, your family, and your friends
• The opportunity to attend a variety of cultural events
• A 30% discount on most items in the gift shop
• Reciprocal access to other area attractions, such as the Portland Art Museum, OMSI, and the Oregon Zoo

EOE Statement

Portland Japanese Garden is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. It is also the policy of Portland Japanese Garden that all employees are entitled to a work environment free from all forms of discrimination. Discrimination or harassment based upon any of these factors is inconsistent with the policy and philosophy of Portland Japanese Garden and will not be tolerated at any time.