Advancement Services Specialist (Accounting Assistant 2)

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
Penn State's Division of Development and Alumni Relations
As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations Development, you can play an integral role in Penn State's future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. We're looking for team members who believe in the power of higher education-and philanthropy-to shape the public good. Learn more about the Division of Development and Alumni Relations at raise.psu.edu and explore the success of our most recent campaign at greaterpennstate.psu.edu
The Donor and Member Services (DMS) office within the Division of Development and Alumni Relations seeks to hire an Advancement Services Specialist (Accounting Assistant 2). The Advancement Services Specialist strategically assists the office of Donor and Member Services within University Development (DDAR). The position is responsible for ensuring that University records accurately reflect the history of all pledges, charitable gifts, and memberships as well as the maintenance of all associated and relevant biographical information for each donor and member.
Specific duties and responsibilities may include:

• Ensure the integrity of the donor and alumni database through accurate analysis, updates, and maintenance of:
  • Biographical information
  • Membership information
  • Financial information related to memberships and gifts
  • Professional information
  • Note that while the activities may be similar, processes for performing these tasks vary greatly based on payment vehicle and type of contribution (Charitable or membership purchase)
• Ensure backup information is created and stored for every associated transaction. This includes leveraging multiple pieces of software to:
  • Prepare and scan checks and charitable contribution forms
  • Troubleshoot for problems related to the software and/or form preparation.
  • Index all associated documentation
• Review and verify the successful completion of daily automated processes that create or update data in the donor and alumni database, Ensure data integrity and successful data updates. This is includes preparing, reviewing and solutioning for:
  • Automated biographical updates
  • Auto creation of new entity records
  • Mass updates to constituent records
  • Failed records or discrepancies
• Act as a primary point of contact via email, phone, and letter correspondence to donors, Alumni Association members, and internal teams for:
  • Processing of charitable contributions
  • Alumni Association memberships
  • Specialized subjects related to donor contributions and records
  • Creation, verification, and distribution of official tax receipts
  • Membership benefits and pricing structures
  • Technology questions regarding membership portal access or email account issues
  • Policies and procedures related to memberships or charitable contributions
  • Issue resolution
  • Peer training
• Provide support and analysis to address:
  • Election eligibility for the Board of Trustees
  • Confirmation of constituents' passing
• Interpret, communicate, and resolve issues related to tax law, specifically
  • the University's tax-exempt status under Section 115 of the IRC and the tax-exempt status of the Philanthropic Fund as a 501(c)(3) organization
  • the impact to individual pledge commitments and payments from Donor-Advised Funds and private foundation.

Attention to detail, problem solving skills, confidence and proficiency with a variety of software platforms, strong time management, and the ability to follow standard procedures are required. Positive attitudes and individuals who work well in a team environment are encouraged to apply.
This position typically requires 3+ years related experience and a High School Diploma or higher, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
The Division of Development and Alumni Relations is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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