Development Associate

Classic Stage Company (CSC) is one of New York’s most celebrated Off Broadway theaters, known for reimagining classic stories with boldness, intimacy, and contemporary resonance. Located in the heart of the East Village, CSC has been a creative home for adventurous theater makers since 1967, producing work in the Lynn F. Angelson Theater—an immersive, 199 seat space that invites artists and audiences into close conversation. Under Producing Artistic Director Jill Rafson, CSC continues to champion innovative interpretations of classic texts while nurturing the next generation of theater artists and audiences.

CSC is supported by a dedicated 20 member Board of Directors and a collaborative leadership team. With an annual budget of approximately $6 Million, the organization is poised for continued artistic growth and institutional momentum. Joining CSC means becoming part of a mission driven company that values curiosity, creativity, and the power of classic stories to speak urgently to the present.

Part of the Development department at CSC, the Development Associate will support all fundraising work with a focus on events and development operations. Reporting to the Director of Development and supporting the Individual Giving Manager, this individual will collaborate with all CSC departments and Board to execute development-focused events, assist in financial and database reporting, and department projects, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail is achieved.

Key Roles and Responsibilities
Special Event Coordination and Support
• Support all special events which include the annual gala, benefit events, Opening Nights, select performances and readings, salons, and more as needed
• Assist in creation of invitation lists using database segmentation
• Manage all RSVP logistics including invitation creation, distribution, RSVP tracking, and confirmation
• Organize annual auction including item fulfillment, pledge and payment tracking, and coordination
• Facilitate seating and ticketing as needed
• Manage select vendors which may include photography, catering, event staffing, and volunteers

Fundraising Operations and Administration
• Support the Individual Giving Manager in the fulfillment of donor benefits and communications
• Manage tax acknowledgment processes for annual, event, and institutional donors, including distribution and special communications
• Complete check processing and bank deposits, ensuring accurate reporting for financial consultants
• Create and distribute Board and associated newsletters, sharing update and details of CSC programming
• Provide administrative support to the Development team which may include scheduling meetings, organizing agendas, and notetaking
• Support the creation of copy and development-related communications in collaboration with marketing team
• Assist in project management of CSC deliverables such as meeting follow-ups, board and stakeholder information requests, and more

Traits and Characteristics
The Development Associate will be a collaborative and highly organized individual who thrives in a fast-paced, artistic environment. They will bring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work seamlessly with staff, board members, artists, and organizational stakeholders. A true team player, this individual will exhibit attention to detail, clear communication, great phone and email etiquette, and strong problem-solving skills.

Experience and Qualifications
This Development Associate will bring a minimum of 1 year of experience in a nonprofit or artistic environment, ideally with experience in a customer-serving position. A successful candidate will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills; exceptional organizational abilities; and the capacity to support or coordinate multiple projects. They will be a timely and personable communicator with a collaborative spirit and ideally, an interest in performing arts. The role requires regular use of standard office and digital communication tools, as well as on site presence during rehearsals, technical periods, and performances.

Experience and/or proficiency in Excel, Outlook, and Word is required, and familiarity with Spektrix or a comparable fundraising CRM is preferred. The ideal candidate will thrive in a team-centered culture, bring a solutions-oriented approach to their work, and demonstrate the interpersonal skills necessary to communicate with donors and board members.

Compensation
This is a full time, overtime eligible position, with a salary range of $52,000-$56,000 and a standard schedule of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours will shift during production periods to ensure appropriate presence and support for company members. CSC offers a hybrid work environment for administrative staff, with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays when schedules allow.

CSC offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, access to a 401k retirement plan, and a flexible paid time off program.

Application Process
Candidates are invited to submit a résumé and a cover letter that shares more about their background, interests, and what draws them to this role at CSC. Application materials should be emailed to jobs@classicstage.org with “Development Associate” in the subject line.

Research shows that men apply for jobs when they fulfill and average of 60% of the criteria, yet women and other people who are systematically marginalized tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, CSC encourages you to apply. CSC is dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you’re returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, CSC will be glad to consider your application.

CSC’s evaluation processes are designed around merit and capability. We don’t select people on the prestige of their educational establishments or other background information. Our interviewers are trained on how to manage selection processes fairly and without bias, and to conduct processes which do not selectively appeal more to one or more demographic to the detriment of any others. CSC does not discriminate against employees or clients based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable accommodations will be made in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.