Job Description

Prospect Research Analyst, University Advancement (2771)

Pocatello - Main

Eligible for a hybrid remote work schedule, as approved by the hiring manager

Priority Date: May 17, 2026

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

Job Description

The ISU Foundation serves as the fundraising and advancement partner of Idaho State University, securing and stewarding private support that strengthens the University's mission and impact. The Foundation is committed to fostering a culture defined by empowerment, appreciation, engagement, and accountability, cornerstones that guide how we work, collaborate, and celebrate success. Our team values trust and shared purpose as we build a strategic and sustainable advancement organization. Together, we cultivate relationships that connect donors, alumni, and partners to the transformative work taking place across the University. Idaho State University and the ISU Foundation are actively preparing to launch a historic and ambitious comprehensive fundraising campaign.

The Prospect Research Analyst supports fundraising success through proactive and responsive research, prospect identification, data stewardship, and portfolio support. This role provides timely, accurate, and useful information that helps fundraisers identify, qualify, and engage prospective donors in support of Idaho State University's fundraising priorities.

Working closely with the Senior Prospect Research Analyst, this role helps prepare research, briefing materials, prospect lists, and portfolio information that support fundraiser strategy and decision-making. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is curious, detail-oriented, and interested in growing their skills in prospect research, philanthropy, and advancement operations. The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, comfortable working with information from multiple sources, and able to translate research into clear and practical summaries for fundraiser use.

This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Prospect Research and Intelligence
  • Conduct proactive and requested research using internal Foundation data, public sources, online research tools, and other vetted resources to identify and evaluate prospective donors and partners.
  • Prepare clear, concise, and confidential research profiles, briefing materials, and summaries to support cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activity.
  • Gather and organize biographical, financial, relational, and philanthropic information to help assess donor interest, affinity, and giving potential.
  • Monitor news, business, philanthropic, and institutional developments relevant to assigned projects and share findings that may help inform fundraiser planning and strategy.
• Prospect Identification and Fundraiser Support
  • Support prospect identification and qualification efforts by developing research lists, reviewing prospect pools, and providing background information for fundraiser action.
  • Prepare visit briefings, call sheets, and research updates for development staff and Foundation leadership.
  • Respond to fundraiser and team research requests in a timely and professional manner, ensuring clarity, relevance, and confidentiality in all deliverables.
  • Support fundraiser portfolio reviews by preparing background research, updating prospect information, and helping maintain accurate and actionable portfolio records.
  • Assist with portfolio-related projects by tracking research activity and documenting findings that support fundraising decisions.
• Data Quality and Record Support
  • Review research and constituent data for completeness, consistency, and accuracy; assist with data cleanup, record maintenance, and database integrity efforts.
  • Support the management and maintenance of manual and automated record systems related to prospect research and fundraising operations.
  • Assist with data collection, preparation, and reporting to support prospect development activity and institutional goals.
  • Document sources and research findings in accordance with Foundation practices, privacy expectations, and professional standards.
• Team Collaboration and Support
  • Partner with colleagues across the Foundation to support research workflows, prospect development efforts, and shared fundraising goals.
  • Contribute to templates, procedures, and documentation that improve consistency and efficiency in research and reporting practices.
  • Participate in training, professional development, and learning opportunities to strengthen research methods, technical skills, and knowledge of advancement best practices.
  • Support special projects and other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Data Science, Library Science, Communications, Business, Social Sciences, or a related field; or a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience in lieu of the degree.
• At least three (3) years experience using a personal computer and Microsoft or Google business software for daily business, communication, and data management.
• Ability to conduct online research using internet and social media tools.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to organize information accurately.
• Ability to communicate clearly in writing and produce professional work products.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting fundraising, nonprofit, higher education, or other relationship-based business functions.
• Experience writing summaries, reports, briefing materials, or other analytical work products.
• Familiarity with fundraising or constituent databases such as Raiser's Edge CRM/RE NXT.
• Familiarity with online information and screening services such as LexisNexis, Foundation Search, or similar tools.
• Experience using Excel for data review, analysis, and basic data manipulation.

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before May 17, 2026. Salary will be between $55,000 - $60,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities. The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov. Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

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