"Data Services Specialist"

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Data Services, the Data Services Specialist provides full-time support in updating the Rice alumni/development database, which is the system of record for alumni, donor, and volunteer information. In addition, the Data Services Specialist will provide both routine and general project support for the Data Services team.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks, and has strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as attention to detail, especially regarding data quality.

Workplace Requirements

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

*Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.*

Minimum Requirements

• HS diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years related experience in data entry/management, administrative, or customer service roles

Skills

• Strong clerical, interpersonal, and basic organizational skills
• Good computer skills
• Ability to exercise judgment and employ basic reasoning skills
• Strong attention to detail

Preferences

• Associate's degree or higher
• 3+ years of related experience in data entry/management and/or in an administrative role with emphasis on both manual and automated data processes
• Experience in non-profit/higher-education settings
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong customer service skills
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions
• Goal-oriented with the ability to prioritize a heavy workload
• Willingness to undertake assignments and follow through with minimal supervision
• Ability to work with a high level of confidentiality
• Additional computer skills:
  • Experience with Blackbaud CRM or other advancement systems
  • Knowledge of charitable giving best practices, IRS regulations, and industry standards
  • Proficiency with internet searches to support constituent research
  • Experience in a PC Windows environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Essential Functions

• Accurately enters data from data sheets or charts into a database and/or manual filing system using specific, standard instructions
• Determines appropriate action to be taken for duplicate, inaccurate, or unclear information
• Maintains computerized and manual logs and files in accordance with established procedures
• Assists with data collection when needed
• Maintains a variety of complex records; suggests or makes improvements to record-keeping procedures
• Performs audits of own work or that of others to ensure conformance with established procedures
• Provides administrative support
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions

• Processes individual, corporate, and foundation gifts in the alumni/development database system
• Generates official gift acknowledgments and receipts for tax purposes for all gifts to the university
• Creates and maintains, through manual and automated processes, accurate biographic and demographic information on constituent records in the alumni/development database system
• Utilizes research tools to verify constituent information
• Maintains documents, both physical and scanned, related to constituents and gifts
• Maintains data quality through the use of data integrity audits and application of data rules
• Provides routine and general project support for the Data Services team
• Acts as a subject matter expert for constituent and gift data
• Collaborates with other members of the Data Services team to establish best practices and documentation
• Has frequent contact with division staff and other campus partners

Open office environment

Occasional extended hours, including after-hours and/or weekends, as needed

Many hours spent in front of a computer

Special Instructions to Applicants

All interested applicants should attach a cover letter and resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

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