Database Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization that aims to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries and employs more than 5,000 staff members worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, and education, and is committed to empowering communities through innovative solutions and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Database Officer position is integral to the Development Operations team, which supports fundraising efforts through effective data management and analytics. The officer will be responsible for executing complex data requests that aid various fundraising teams, including Mass Market Engagement, Corporations & Foundations, High Impact Philanthropy, and Mass Market Fundraising. This role requires a strong understanding of database management, particularly with Raiser’s Edge, and the ability to troubleshoot and optimize donor data. The Database Officer will ensure that the donor database is accurate and up-to-date, which is crucial for effective fundraising strategies and donor engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Database Officer will manage regular data file exchanges with multiple external vendors, ensuring a shared understanding of data fields across all agencies. They will produce queries, exports, and ad hoc reports to analyze the performance of marketing and fundraising efforts. The officer will also update and maintain documentation for mailing list request procedures and data exchange processes. They will manage ad hoc database query requests during emergency fundraising moments and liaise with IT and vendors to troubleshoot any performance issues. Additionally, the officer will support the Database Manager in direct mail processes and co-lead Raiser’s Edge training across Development and Marketing. Specific responsibilities include supporting the Corporations & Foundations Team with donor portfolio management, overseeing updates of key donor record fields, and improving data entry practices. For the High-Impact Philanthropy Team, the officer will manage record and portfolio management and prepare data imports for events and campaigns. Lastly, for the Mass Market Engagement Team, the officer will manage donor portfolio coding and create data exports for outreach campaigns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate a combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but equivalent work experience and skills will also be considered. The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various teams. Proficiency in Raiser’s Edge or similar database management systems is essential, along with excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with internal and external stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is preferred for this position. However, candidates with significant relevant work experience and transferable skills may also be considered. Educational backgrounds in data management, information systems, or related fields would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of relevant work experience in database management or a related field. Candidates should have experience working with fundraising teams or in a non-profit environment, demonstrating their ability to handle complex data requests and support fundraising efforts effectively. Experience with Raiser’s Edge or similar database systems is highly desirable.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they align with the regions where Mercy Corps operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Portland, Oregon, and may offer a hybrid work model. The role does not have supervisory responsibilities and reports directly to the Database Manager within the Development Operations team. Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter detailing how their experience aligns with the qualifications and responsibilities outlined in the job description.