Development & Communications Associate in San Jose, California at The Creekside School

The Creekside School

Development & Communications Associate

The Creekside School is a mission driven, nonprofit, nonpublic school serving students with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Our team is passionate about creating meaningful educational experiences that empower students and families while fostering connection, growth, and community.

We are seeking a creative, organized, and relationship focused Development & Communications Associate (DCA) to help expand community engagement, strengthen donor relationships, and share the incredible stories happening at Creekside every day. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys blending communications, fundraising, storytelling, and event coordination in a collaborative and purpose driven environment.

In partnership with the Development Director, and Manager, the DCA will support fundraising initiatives, community outreach, donor engagement, social media management, and school wide communications. This role plays an important part in helping The School grow its impact, increase visibility, and strengthen relationships with families, supporters, and the broader community.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, creative, proactive, and excited to contribute to a school community dedicated to supporting neurodiverse learners.

• Support annual fundraising campaigns and donor engagement initiatives
• Coordinate logistics for The School’s annual fundraising event and community gatherings
• Assist with stewardship events including donor appreciation events, campus tours, and board related gatherings
• Maintain accurate donor records and gift tracking within DonorBox and other development systems
• Process donations and prepare timely donor acknowledgements and communications
• Assist with donor outreach, sponsorship coordination, and fundraising reporting
• Support fundraising campaigns including Giving Tuesday, Autism Awareness Month, and annual giving efforts
• Help identify opportunities to strengthen donor and community relationships

• Create and distribute newsletters, family updates, and development communications
• Maintain and update website content to reflect current programs, events, and school initiatives
• Manage and grow The Creekside School’s social media presence across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
• Develop engaging content that highlights student success stories, school culture, and program impact
• Design visual and written materials for events, campaigns, and outreach efforts
• Assist with photography, video content, and storytelling initiatives that celebrate the Creekside community
• Help maintain consistent branding and messaging across all communications

• Coordinate event timelines, materials, vendors, volunteers, and logistics
• Assist with event setup, registration, guest communication, and follow up
• Prepare signage, promotional materials, sponsorship packets, and event collateral
• Support school and community events that promote engagement and visibility

• Maintain organized development and communications files and systems
• Assist with data tracking, reporting, spreadsheets, and project coordination
• Coordinate schedules, meetings, and communication timelines related to development activities
• Support compliance with confidentiality and organizational standards
• Perform other related duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Two or more years of experience in communications, fundraising, nonprofit development, education, marketing, or related field preferred
• Experience in a nonprofit or school setting strongly preferred
• Familiarity with donor databases, CRM systems, website platforms, and social media tools preferred
• Graphic design, Canva, photography, or video editing experience is a plus

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail
• Creative mindset with the ability to develop engaging content and campaigns
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build positive relationships with families, donors, and community members
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and social media platforms
• Professionalism, warmth, and discretion in all interactions
• Passion for supporting students with autism and developmental disabilities

• Be part of a compassionate and collaborative school community
• Help make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and families
• Opportunity to contribute creatively and strategically to a growing organization
• Supportive leadership team and mission driven culture
• Engaging, rewarding, and purpose filled work environment

• Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends for fundraising and community events
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and assist with event setup as needed
• Participation in modified Safety-Care training provided by The School as part of onboarding

Compensation is dependent on experience and qualifications. The School offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth and development.