Careers

At the Foundation Fighting Blindness, our employees are true beacons of hope as they are committed to our urgent mission to drive the research that will provide preventions, treatments and cures for people affected by retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, Usher syndrome and the entire spectrum of retinal degenerative diseases.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is the largest nongovernmental foundation supporting retinal disease research in the world. Over the past four decades, the Foundation expanded its influence by raising more than $816 million to fund thousands of research studies at prominent institutions worldwide, attracting and investing in the first generation of clinicians and scientists focused on retinal disease research. We have regional offices in New York NY, Columbia MD, Chicago IL, Raleigh NC and Santa Monica CA.

We are looking for talented and passionate individuals to join us in the search to find preventions, treatments, and cures for inherited retinal degenerative diseases. Learn more about the job opportunities that are currently available at the Foundation.

CHAPTER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER – MIDWEST

The Foundation Fighting Blindness Inc. has one clear objective: accelerating therapeutic advances for the treatments and cures of rare genetic diseases of the retina. These diseases, which affect more than 10 million Americans and millions more throughout the world, often lead to severe vision loss or complete blindness. Working with preeminent scientists, the Fondation has funded breakthroughs in gene therapy, stem cells and bionic retinas. Over the past five decades, the Foundation has raised more than $816 million to fund research studies in both academic and industry labs worldwide.

Position Summary: We are currently seeking Chapter Engagement Manager for the Midwest Region who will be responsible for providing support and leadership to an assigned group of chapters in the region. The manager will be responsible for developing a chapter environment that engages leadership and encourages, promotes and achieves successful engagement, fundraising and resources in the community.

The position report to the Director, Chapter Engagement.

Primary Responsibilities include:

Execute an in-market plan to grow the chapter community within assigned geography by developing, nurturing and growing 5 – 7 grassroots chapters whose primary focus is providing resources, raising funds and building engagement
Increase the effectiveness of chapters and chapter leadership in recruiting new members, retaining members, generating revenue and developing on-going opportunities and activities for volunteer engagement in the region
Responsible for building a portfolio of significant relationships and partnerships representing the Foundation as an on-the-ground ambassadors in a defined geography.
Provide integrated levels of support and interaction with donors and volunteer leadership in collaboration with development/events staff and volunteers. Serve as the key liaison to volunteer leadership in the region
Facilitate chapter meetings (science and resources presentation) and coordinate leadership meetings via conference calls and in-person as designated by the Chapter strategy; encourage volunteer driven coffee socials or other member opportunities in each market to help identify new chapter members and will provide continued engagement
Mentor volunteer leaders and serve as a collaborative leader. A strong partner working with volunteers to identify and cultivate individuals, corporations and foundations to help grow the base in the region and increase revenue which would consist of face-to-face meetings in market as determined by your supervisor market strategy
Prepare budgets, forecasts and projects, as well as accurate and timely plans, consistent with the strategic plan
Actively utilize the database containing donor records and historical gift and family information
Develop and deliver opportunities for volunteer development and training
Working with other Foundation staff, participate in the development of regional and fundraising activities that support volunteer development, training and participation. In collaboration with staff identify new chapters and continue strengthening existing Chapters

The successful candidate will possess:

This is a virtual position. Internet accessibility and daily usage is REQUIRED
Bachelor’s degree required
5+ years successful track record in the volunteer or special event management which includes identification, solicitation and stewardship of volunteers and donors
Demonstrated examples of ability to collaborate, motivate and lead as well as partner successfully with staff, board, volunteers, high level donors and regional staff in creating new giving opportunities
Must reside in one of the assigned markets and will be home based
Strong sense of fundraising ethics and respect for confidentiality of volunteer and donor information
Interest in making a significant contribution to a recognized world class health and science
leadership organization.
A deep commitment to the values of the organization and a passion for the mission
Must have excellent interpersonal, and strong verbal and written communication skills
Must be highly organized, detail-oriented and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
A team player with an ability to work independently is required
Must be proactive, enthusiastic and have strong follow-up skills
Fully proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
Experienced with databases, and understands and extensively utilize the database that contains donor records and historical gift information
Must be able to work flexible week
Up to 30% travel required
Must possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, as well as a terrific team to work with! The Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.

CHAPTER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER – SOUTH

Position Summary: We are currently seeking Chapter Engagement Manager for the South Region, based in Orlando, FL who will be responsible for providing support and leadership to an assigned group of chapters in the region. The manager will be responsible for developing a chapter environment that engages leadership and encourages, promotes and achieves successful engagement, fundraising and resources in the community.

The position report to the Director, Chapter Engagement.

Primary Responsibilities include:

Execute an in-market plan to grow the chapter community within assigned geography by developing, nurturing and growing 5 – 7 grassroots chapters whose primary focus is providing resources, raising funds and building engagement
Increase the effectiveness of chapters and chapter leadership in recruiting new members, retaining members, generating revenue and developing on-going opportunities and activities for volunteer engagement in the region
Responsible for building a portfolio of significant relationships and partnerships representing the Foundation as an on-the-ground ambassadors in a defined geography.
Provide integrated levels of support and interaction with donors and volunteer leadership in collaboration with development/events staff and volunteers. Serve as the key liaison to volunteer leadership in the region
Facilitate chapter meetings (science and resources presentation) and coordinate leadership meetings via conference calls and in-person as designated by the Chapter strategy; encourage volunteer driven coffee socials or other member opportunities in each market to help identify new chapter members and will provide continued engagement
Mentor volunteer leaders and serve as a collaborative leader. A strong partner working with volunteers to identify and cultivate individuals, corporations and foundations to help grow the base in the region and increase revenue which would consist of face-to-face meetings in market as determined by your supervisor market strategy
Prepare budgets, forecasts and projects, as well as accurate and timely plans, consistent with the strategic plan
Actively utilize the database containing donor records and historical gift and family information
Develop and deliver opportunities for volunteer development and training
Working with other Foundation staff, participate in the development of regional and fundraising activities that support volunteer development, training and participation. In collaboration with staff identify new chapters and continue strengthening existing Chapters

The successful candidate will possess:

This is a virtual position. Internet accessibility and daily usage is REQUIRED
Bachelor’s degree required
5+ years successful track record in the volunteer or special event management which includes identification, solicitation and stewardship of volunteers and donors
Demonstrated examples of ability to collaborate, motivate and lead as well as partner successfully with staff, board, volunteers, high level donors and regional staff in creating new giving opportunities
Must reside in one of the assigned markets and will be home based
Strong sense of fundraising ethics and respect for confidentiality of volunteer and donor information
Interest in making a significant contribution to a recognized world class health and science leadership organization.
A deep commitment to the values of the organization and a passion for the mission
Must have excellent interpersonal, and strong verbal and written communication skills
Must be highly organized, detail-oriented and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
A team player with an ability to work independently is required
Must be proactive, enthusiastic and have strong follow-up skills
Fully proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
Experienced with databases, and understands and extensively utilize the database that contains donor records and historical gift information
Must be able to work flexible week
Up to 30% travel required
Must possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, as well as a terrific team to work with! The Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.

CHAPTER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER – SOUTHWEST/TX

The Foundation Fighting Blindness Inc. has one clear objective: accelerating therapeutic advances for the treatments and cures of rare genetic diseases of the retina. These diseases, which affect more than 10 million Americans and millions more
throughout the world, often lead to severe vision loss or complete blindness. Working with preeminent scientists, the Fondation has funded breakthroughs in gene therapy, stem cells and bionic retinas. Over the past five decades, the Foundation has raised more than $816 million to fund research studies in both academic and industry labs worldwide.

Position Summary: We are currently seeking Chapter Engagement Manager for the Southwest Region, based in Austin, TX who will be responsible for providing support and leadership to an assigned group of chapters in the region. The manager will be responsible for developing a chapter environment that engages leadership and encourages, promotes and achieves successful engagement, fundraising and resources in the community.

The position report to the Director, Chapter Engagement.

Primary Responsibilities include:

Execute an in-market plan to grow the chapter community within assigned geography by developing, nurturing and growing 5 – 7 grassroots chapters whose primary focus is providing resources, raising funds and building engagement
Increase the effectiveness of chapters and chapter leadership in recruiting new members, retaining members, generating revenue and developing on-going opportunities and activities for volunteer engagement in the region
Responsible for building a portfolio of significant relationships and partnerships representing the Foundation as an on-the-ground ambassadors in a defined geography.
Provide integrated levels of support and interaction with donors and volunteer leadership in collaboration with development/events staff and volunteers. Serve as the key liaison to volunteer leadership in the region
Facilitate chapter meetings (science and resources presentation) and coordinate leadership meetings via conference calls and in-person as designated by the Chapter strategy; encourage volunteer driven coffee socials or other member opportunities in each market to help identify new chapter members and will provide continued engagement
Mentor volunteer leaders and serve as a collaborative leader. A strong partner working with volunteers to identify and cultivate individuals, corporations and foundations to help grow the base in the region and increase revenue which would consist of face-to-face meetings in market as determined by your supervisor market strategy
Prepare budgets, forecasts and projects, as well as accurate and timely plans, consistent with the strategic plan
Actively utilize the database containing donor records and historical gift and family information
Develop and deliver opportunities for volunteer development and training
Working with other Foundation staff, participate in the development of regional and fundraising activities that support volunteer development, training and participation. In collaboration with staff identify new chapters and continue strengthening existing Chapters

The successful candidate will possess:

This is a virtual position. Internet accessibility and daily usage is REQUIRED
Bachelor’s degree required
5+ years successful track record in the volunteer or special event management which includes identification, solicitation and stewardship of volunteers and donors
Demonstrated examples of ability to collaborate, motivate and lead as well as partner successfully with staff, board, volunteers, high level donors and regional staff in creating new giving opportunities
Must reside in one of the assigned markets and will be home based
Strong sense of fundraising ethics and respect for confidentiality of volunteer and donor information
Interest in making a significant contribution to a recognized world class health and science
leadership organization.
A deep commitment to the values of the organization and a passion for the mission
Must have excellent interpersonal, and strong verbal and written communication skills
Must be highly organized, detail-oriented and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
A team player with an ability to work independently is required
Must be proactive, enthusiastic and have strong follow-up skills
Fully proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
Experienced with databases, and understands and extensively utilize the database that contains donor records and historical gift information
Must be able to work flexible week
Up to 30% travel required
Must possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, as well as a terrific team to work with! The Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.

EVENTS MANAGER

Working with preeminent scientists, the Foundation has funded breakthroughs in gene therapy, stem cells and bionic retinas. Over the past four decades, the Foundation has raised more than $816 million to und research studies in both academic and industry labs worldwide.

We are seeking a dynamic, experienced and organized EVENTS MANAGER to be part of our team. This position will be based in Orlando FL.

Responsibilities include:

Plans fundraising events in coordination with management, vendors and volunteers
Ensures all fundraising events are within budget, meet financial objectives, and appropriately represent the Foundation to the donor community
Responsible for event logistics including venue, communication, vendor, staff and volunteer matters. Events include dinners, walks and other smaller events
Works with multiple parties to initiate, plan and execute fundraising events including venues, photographers, food, floral arrangements, etc.
Recruit, trains, and supervises event volunteers
Cultivates, solicits, and stewards prospects, donors and volunteers
Functions as Foundation liaison with Planning committees and meetings
Transports event materials and equipment as needed
Participates in special projects and events as assigned
Supervise and mentor an Events Assistant

The selected candidate will possess:

This is a virtual position. Daily Internet accessibility is REQUIRED
Bachelor’s degree required
5+years of demonstrated experience in non-profit event planning and fundraising
Fundraising with walk-a-thon experience is highly desirable
An ability to lead and motivate volunteers, and maintain positive client relations
Highly organized, detail-oriented and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills; strong verbal and written communication skills
Excellent attendance and be must be accountable for quality of work
Fully proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
Working knowledge of relational databases; Convio helpful
Overnight and weekend travel required (currently paused due to COVID)
Able to lift up to 20 lbs.
Possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier

Please send your resume with a cover letter stating salary requirement and overview of fundraising accomplishments. We offer an excellent salary and benefits, and a terrific team environment! The Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.

DEVELOPMENT/CHAPTER ASSISTANT

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is the largest nongovernmental foundation supporting retinal disease research in the world. Over the past four decades, the Foundation expanded its influence by raising more than $816 million to fund thousands of research studies at prominent institutions worldwide, attracting and investing in the first generation of clinicians and scientists focused on retinal disease research.

We are seeking a dynamic, experienced and organized DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT to be part of our team, based in the Columbia, MD area.

Responsibilities include:

Assist Development and Chapter Directors in coordination of fundraising goals and multiple chapters’ activities
Coordinate mailings for major gift cultivation, stewardship and solicitations
Assist in coordination of multiple chapter activities and coordination of symposia
Coordinate schedules and meetings for guests and staff
Manage invitation responses, guest lists and mailing lists
Develop and design promotional materials such as invitations, posters and presentations
Research prospective symposia locations and funding resources, such as corporate, foundation and individual sponsors
Maintain invoices and expenses based on Foundation accounting procedures
Manage database system for constituents, including accuracy and entering of new information for constituent records
Prepare and assist in logistical aspects of chapter meetings
Maintain excellent customer service and support with all volunteers, Foundation Board Members and National Trustees, donors and event attendees.

The successful candidate will possess:

This is a virtual position. Daily Internet accessibility is REQUIRED
Bachelor’s degree required
5+ years’ experience as an assistant - non-profit experienced preferred
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint required
Strong knowledge and experienced with non-profit relational databases
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask
Able to lift up to 30 lbs.
Ability to work occasional overtime for completion of projects
Successful and demonstrated ability to work in a virtual environment and independently
Occasional travel is required
Must possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier
Must have excellent attendance and be accountable for quality of work
Ability to work occasional overtime for completion of projects
Occasional travel may be required

We offer highly competitive salary and benefits, as well as a terrific team to work with! Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.

CHAPTER ENGAGEMENT ASSISTANT

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is the largest non-governmental foundation supporting retinal disease research in the world. Over the past four decades, the Foundation expanded its influence by raising more than $816 million to fund thousands of research studies at prominent institutions worldwide, attracting and investing in the first generation of clinicians and scientists focused on retinal disease research.

We are seeking a dynamic, experienced and organized ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, CHAPTER ENGAGEMENT to be part of our team, based in the Columbia, MD area. The ideal candidate will provide support for our Director, Chapter Engagement as well as our Chapter Engagement Managers.

Responsibilities include:

Provide support for Director and Managers, Chapter Engagement including correspondence, program logistics, database quality and constituent contact.
Research, compile and verify a variety of information and analyze information for a variety of reports related to chapter membership and activities.
Assist in coordination of multiple chapter activities and coordination of symposia.
Coordinate schedules and meetings for guests and staff.
Manage invitation responses, guest lists and mailing lists.
Develop and design promotional materials such as invitations, posters and presentations.
Research prospective symposia locations and funding resources, such as corporate, foundation and individual sponsors.
Negotiate contracts with outside vendors, and maintain invoices and expenses based on Foundation accounting procedures.
Communicate with other departments, and outside organizations to coordinate activities, exchange information and resolve issues or concerns.
Ensure key deadlines are maintained in team calendars to ensure timely completion of projects and keep the team apprised of upcoming deadlines.
Maintain excellent customer service and support with all volunteers, Foundation Board Members and Trustees, chapter leaders and donors.

The successful candidate will possess:

Bachelor’s degree required
4+ years’ experience as an assistant - non-profit experienced preferred
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint required
Strong knowledge and experienced with non-profit relational databases
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask
Able to lift up to 30 lbs.
Possess valid driver’s license with driving record acceptable to Foundation Fighting Blindness insurance carrier
Ability to work occasional overtime for completion of projects
Successful and demonstrated ability to work in a virtual environment and independently
Occasional travel is required

Please send resume with salary requirements to HR@fightblindness.org. Please note – RESUMES WITHOUT SALARY REQUIREMENT STATED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, as well as a terrific team to work with! The Foundation Fighting Blindness is an equal opportunity employer.