Database Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating 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, education, and disaster response, with a mission to create a better world through innovative solutions and community engagement.

Job Overview:
The Database Officer position is integral to the Development Operations team at Mercy Corps, 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, and High Impact Philanthropy. This role requires a strong understanding of the Raiser’s Edge database, as the officer will ensure that donor data is accurate and up-to-date, troubleshoot issues, and optimize data management processes. The position demands a balance between attention to detail and the ability to address larger organizational challenges, with a focus on continuous process improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Database Officer will manage regular data file exchanges with external vendors, ensuring a shared understanding of data fields across all agencies. They will produce queries, exports, and ad hoc reports to analyze fundraising performance, maintain documentation for data exchange processes, and manage ad hoc database requests during critical fundraising moments. The officer will also liaise with IT and vendors to troubleshoot database issues, support the Database Manager in direct mail processes, and co-lead training for Raiser’s Edge across Development and Marketing. Specific responsibilities include supporting the Corporations & Foundations Team with donor portfolio management, overseeing updates of donor records, and developing process flows for data entry practices. For the High-Impact Philanthropy Team, the officer will manage record and portfolio management, prepare data imports for events, and improve documentation related to these workstreams. Additionally, for the Mass Market Engagement Team, the officer will manage donor portfolio coding, upload actions from mass communications, and create data exports for outreach campaigns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent transferable work experience. A minimum of one year of experience in non-profit organizations is preferred, along with at least two years of experience using Raiser’s Edge (NXT preferred) or similar fundraising databases. Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as a proven ability to maintain and audit records. A solid customer service orientation and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, are required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate effective communication skills, the ability to prioritize tasks, and a commitment to teamwork and flexibility under pressure. Transferable skills gained through education, volunteer work, or life experiences will also be considered.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree is preferred for this position, although relevant work experience and transferable skills may be accepted in lieu of formal education. Candidates should clearly articulate how their educational background and experiences relate to the responsibilities of the Database Officer role in their cover letter.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of experience with Raiser’s Edge or similar fundraising databases, along with a minimum of one year of experience in a non-profit setting. Candidates should demonstrate a strong ability to manage data effectively and possess analytical skills that enable them to solve complex problems related to data management and fundraising efforts.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory due to the nature of the work and communication within the organization. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in regions where Mercy Corps operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Portland, Oregon, at Mercy Corps Headquarters and will follow a hybrid model, allowing for both remote and in-person work. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning, encouraging team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, actively seeking candidates from various backgrounds and experiences.