Philanthropic Advisor, Principal Gifts
Baylor University
Waco, TX · Posted September 8, 2026
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Where Waco, TX ranks
Where Waco, TX placed in our monthly rankings, month by month. Each month stays online at its own address.
November 2026
- #4Best cities for director and executive jobs in the Southwest26% · of 44
- #8Cities where the biggest share of jobs do not need a four-year degree in the Southwest19% · of 37
- #12Best college towns for junior jobs in the Southwest34% · of 32
- #12Best cities for junior jobs in Texas33% · of 31
- #14Best cities for junior jobs in the Southwest33% · of 44
- #22Best cities for software and engineering jobs in the Southwest52 openings · of 33
About the job
A humble college founded before Texas was a state, Baylor now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, both solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities.
Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation’s “ Great Colleges to Work For ”. Great Colleges to Work For® is one of the country’s largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career.
What We are Looking For
This position will support the mission of the University by serving on the principal gifts team and qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors and prospects for principal gifts in support of Baylor University, Baylor Athletics and all colleges and units. The principal gifts team is focused on seven and eight figure philanthropic commitments to Baylor University.
A bachelor's degree and eight years of relevant experience are required. A master's degree and ten or more years of experience is preferred.
A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of one another.
A valid US Driver License with a clear driving record of at least two years is required.
Must be able to travel outside of the state of Texas.
This role will be based in Waco, Texas.
Applicants must be authorized to work full-time in the United States.
What You Will Do
Cultivate, solicit and steward a highly targeted portfolio of principal gift capacity donors and prospects for principal gifts to Baylor in all academic areas, Bold Pursuits, and Baylor Athletics with the expectation to be an annual leader for dollars raised among all fundraisers
Lead fundraising efforts that impact Baylor capital, endowment and current use success
Collaborate with the Associate Vice President for Principal Gifts, Baylor University’s leadership, vice presidents/deans, lead development officers of 14 colleges/schools/units, and Advancement's leadership team to develop strategic philanthropic agendas, consistent with Baylor's strategic plans for principal level donors to the university, academic units, Bold Pursuits, and Baylor Athletics
Participate fully in University Advancement's prospect management, discovery/qualification visits, and related prospect development programs in order to inspire trust, encourage creative thinking, and collaborate with other Baylor staff and volunteers to significantly increase private gifts to Baylor
With the leadership of the Associate Vice President, establish yearly measurable goals/objectives, related metrics for new gift commitments secured, proposals made, new prospects qualified, and prospect meetings held
Assist, as requested by the Vice President for University Development, with programs to increase top of the pyramid giving to Baylor
Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
Ability to comply with University policies
Maintain regular and punctual attendance
What You Can Expect
As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages .
Explore & Engage
Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds . Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally . If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco !
Baylor University, a private not-for-profit university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is committed to compliance with all applicable anti-discrimination laws, including those regarding age, race, color, sex, national origin, military service, genetic information, and disability. Baylor complies with statutory Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity requirements. Baylor's full official Notice of Non-Discrimination may be read online.