Development and Communications Manager Jobs
Development and Communications Manager jobs are open across nonprofits, higher education, healthcare, and mission-driven organizations, at every level from coordinator-track to director, with specializations in donor relations, public affairs, and integrated communications. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State is currently seeking a Graphic Design Specialist in the Office of Development Communications to support both graphic design and multimedia production across a broad range of fundraising communications and marketing objectives at the University. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, 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.
For full consideration, applicants are asked to attach a cover letter and resume/CV, . Candidates should provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing strong storytelling, concept execution, and technical craft, for review as part of their application.
As part of a visual communications team within the Office of Development Communications, the Graphic Design Specialist will:
- Design, edit, and produce graphic art, visual communications, and multimedia products for promotional, advertising, educational, and administrative purposes
- Create and manipulate graphic images, illustrations, and photography into integrated multimedia solutions across print and digital platforms
- Design, develop, and update websites, landing pages, and other digital communications that adhere to the latest accessibility and user experience best practices.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, content authors, and project teams to ensure visual and multimedia solutions align with institutional objectives, messaging, and mission
- Create proofs, prototypes, mock-ups, wireframes, and other visual aids to communicate design concepts and support project development
- Participate in the creative direction, planning, production, and quality review of video and audio content
- Design and develop presentation materials, templates, branding assets, and communication tools for promotional, developmental, operational, and administrative purposes
- Maintain consistency with established branding, visual identity, style guides, and communication standards
- Review, revise, and update existing multimedia and graphic products to ensure accuracy, relevance, quality, and effectiveness
- Research and apply emerging design trends, technologies, tools, and best practices to enhance communication and user engagement Ensure compliance with accessibility requirements, contractual obligations, copyright requirements, confidentiality and privacy policies, and applicable organizational standards and guidelines
The successful candidate will have:
- Strong knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication strategies, and user-centered design
- Understanding of current design technologies to support visual and multimedia products for print, digital, video, web, social media
- Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as experience with Adobe Premiere
- Understanding of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and excel as well as OneDrive/SharePoint
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
DDAR 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.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate degree and 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $86,400.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
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 .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity 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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PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State is currently seeking a Graphic Design Specialist in the Office of Development Communications to support both graphic design and multimedia production across a broad range of fundraising communications and marketing objectives at the University. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, 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.
For full consideration, applicants are asked to attach a cover letter and resume/CV, . Candidates should provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing strong storytelling, concept execution, and technical craft, for review as part of their application.
As part of a visual communications team within the Office of Development Communications, the Graphic Design Specialist will:
- Design, edit, and produce graphic art, visual communications, and multimedia products for promotional, advertising, educational, and administrative purposes
- Create and manipulate graphic images, illustrations, and photography into integrated multimedia solutions across print and digital platforms
- Design, develop, and update websites, landing pages, and other digital communications that adhere to the latest accessibility and user experience best practices.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, content authors, and project teams to ensure visual and multimedia solutions align with institutional objectives, messaging, and mission
- Create proofs, prototypes, mock-ups, wireframes, and other visual aids to communicate design concepts and support project development
- Participate in the creative direction, planning, production, and quality review of video and audio content
- Design and develop presentation materials, templates, branding assets, and communication tools for promotional, developmental, operational, and administrative purposes
- Maintain consistency with established branding, visual identity, style guides, and communication standards
- Review, revise, and update existing multimedia and graphic products to ensure accuracy, relevance, quality, and effectiveness
- Research and apply emerging design trends, technologies, tools, and best practices to enhance communication and user engagement Ensure compliance with accessibility requirements, contractual obligations, copyright requirements, confidentiality and privacy policies, and applicable organizational standards and guidelines
The successful candidate will have:
- Strong knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication strategies, and user-centered design
- Understanding of current design technologies to support visual and multimedia products for print, digital, video, web, social media
- Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as experience with Adobe Premiere
- Understanding of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and excel as well as OneDrive/SharePoint
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
DDAR 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.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate degree and 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $86,400.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
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 .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity 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.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
Development and Communications Manager Jobs by Experience Level
See All 117+ Development and Communications Manager Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsDevelopment and Communications Manager Job Market
Who's Hiring
- Resolv.Global21R
- Amazon6
- Irby Utilities3
- CAMBA2
- Lockheed Martin2
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in development and communications manager jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, nonprofit management, or a related field
- Experience managing donor databases or CRM platforms such as Raiser's Edge or Salesforce Nonprofit
- Demonstrated ability to write grant proposals, donor appeals, and press releases
- Experience planning and executing fundraising campaigns or annual giving programs
- Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple campaigns and deadlines
- Familiarity with digital communications tools including email marketing platforms and social media management
Tips for Your Development and Communications Manager Job Search
Tailor your resume to both functions
Development and communications manager roles blend fundraising metrics and storytelling, so your resume needs to show both. Quantify donor retention or campaign revenue alongside writing and media work so hiring managers see you can own the full scope.
Highlight your CRM and donor database experience
Most job descriptions for this role list a specific donor management system. Name the platforms you have used directly in your skills section and in relevant bullet points, since applicant tracking systems screen for exact tool names before a human reads your resume.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists development and communications manager openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Show writing samples that cross both disciplines
Bring a portfolio that includes at least one donor appeal or grant narrative alongside a press release or external communications piece. Reviewers want evidence you can shift tone between fundraising urgency and public-facing brand voice without losing credibility.
Prepare a case study from a real campaign
Interviewers for combined development and communications roles frequently ask you to walk through a campaign end-to-end. Prepare one example that connects the communications strategy to a fundraising outcome, with specific results you can discuss in concrete terms.
Negotiate by separating base pay from professional development
Many nonprofits and education institutions have compressed salary bands but more flexibility on conference budgets, dues, and continuing education. When negotiating, ask about those line items separately after you have addressed base compensation, since they add measurable career value.
Development and Communications Manager Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most development and communications managers?
The most active employers for development and communications managers right now are Resolv.Global, Amazon, and Irby Utilities, and the most openings are in California, Texas, and Washington, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Nonprofits, universities, and healthcare systems consistently make up the largest share of open roles in this field.
How many development and communications manager jobs are remote?
About 82% of development and communications manager openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with availability varying significantly by organization type. Communications-heavy responsibilities such as content creation, media relations, and digital campaigns tend to be more remote-compatible than donor stewardship or event-driven development work, which often requires in-person presence.
How do you become a development and communications manager?
Most people move into this role by building experience in either fundraising or communications first, then expanding into the other function over time. Starting in a development associate, grants writer, or communications coordinator role at a nonprofit or institution gives you direct exposure to both skill sets. Earning a certification in fundraising, such as the CFRE credential, alongside a portfolio of writing samples strengthens your candidacy considerably.
Can you get hired as a development and communications manager with little experience?
Getting hired at the manager level with limited experience is competitive, but moving up from a coordinator or associate role within the same organization is a realistic path. Volunteer grant writing, managing communications for a community organization, or running a small annual fund campaign can substitute for formal experience when you frame those results concretely in your resume and cover letter.
What does the development and communications manager interview process look like?
The process typically starts with a phone or video screen focused on your background in both fundraising and communications. A second round usually involves a panel interview with the development director, a communications or marketing colleague, and sometimes a program staff member. Many organizations also include a writing exercise or case study asking you to draft a donor appeal or communications plan before or during the final round.
Where can I find and apply to development and communications manager jobs?
You can find and apply to development and communications manager jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Find roles that match your experience and location preference, then apply directly to each listing from the job page.
See All 117+ Development and Communications Manager Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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