Job Description
Job Description
Canyon seeks a full-time Development Officer to lead all fundraising and development activities for the organization.
Who we are
Canyon is a nonprofit arts venue opening in 2026 on the Lower East Side of NYC, dedicated to the exhibition of time-based media art and performance.
Position Overview
The Development Officer reports directly to Canyon's Director. This position joins a small but growing team of arts professionals and will be integral to the development of the organization as it prepares for a Fall 2026 public opening. The Development Officer is responsible for building the foundation of the department and then leading all related activities, including building and maintaining a community of donors, writing and obtaining grants to support public programming, overseeing membership, and facilitating and maintaining relationships with patrons. The ideal candidate will bring with them experience in the field, the ability to develop and grow a membership and funder base, and excellent communication skills.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, in partnership with the Director
- Manage and expand Canyon's membership over time
- Research and prepare grant proposals to support exhibitions, programs, and operations
- Work with the Board of Trustees on annual giving and special events, including organization of an annual gala
- Cultivate and steward relationships with individual, corporate, and foundation donors
- Oversee all fundraising events and donor engagement activities
- Establish and manage development systems and record-keeping
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years of professional experience in development or fundraising, preferably in the cultural or nonprofit sector
- Demonstrated success in securing individual gifts, managing membership programs, and writing grants
- Superior communication, writing, and public speaking abilities
Desired skills and qualifications
- Experience with contemporary art, performance, or time-based media
- Knowledge of New York philanthropic networks
- Experience with CRM and fundraising software
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is commensurate with experience. The expected range is $135,000-170,000.
This is a full-time salaried position. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance; a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account; a 401(k) retirement account with a matching contribution; and tuition reimbursement.
We are an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
To apply:
Please upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references in the 'Resume' section of the job application portal.