UJA-Federation of New York is the largest local philanthropy in the world. For more than 100 years, we’ve brought New Yorkers together to solve some of the most pressing problems facing our community. Thanks to our network of hundreds of non-profits, we can leverage our expertise across any number of areas — including health and human services, arts and culture, and education — to care for Jews everywhere and New Yorkers of all backgrounds, respond to crises close to home and far away, and shape our Jewish future. Our reach extends from New York to Israel to nearly 70 other countries around the world, touching 4.5 million people each year.
We are seeking a technical, data-savvy Senior Data Engineer, Digital Optimization to join our data and insights team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of donor intelligence and use advanced technology—including A.I. and machine learning—to drive transformational philanthropy.
Job Summary
The Senior Data Engineer, Digital Optimization will lead efforts to identify, analyze, and prioritize prospective donors by combining and automating traditional prospect research with modern data science tools and AI-enabled solutions. This role will help uncover new major donor prospects, model giving potential, and surface key insights to support personalized donor engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Leverage AI tools and data platforms to identify, segment, and prioritize donor prospects
- Integrate and analyze data from a variety of sources (public records, wealth indicators, real estate, obituaries, social media, news coverage, etc.)
- Design and implement a process to automate the development of prospect profiles and biographies for major gift officers and senior leadership.
- Collaborate with fundraising and marketing teams to support campaigns and donor strategy
- Maintain and refine predictive models to identify high-potential donors
- Stay informed about emerging technologies, platforms, and ethical considerations related to AI in fundraising
Qualifications
- 5-7 years of experience in data analytics, data science, or a quantitative research role.
- Data skills: an expertise in machine learning, predictive analytics, and segmentation modeling.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with Python, SQL, and Excel. JavaScript is a plus.
- Writing Skills: strong analytical and writing skills and must be able to synthesize and convey information clearly and concisely.
- Familiarity with and passion for AI tools, APIs, and platforms used in data enrichment and analytics
- Demonstrated passion for GenAI and LLMs through personal projects, online courses, or contributions
- Experience using donor management systems (Salesforce NPSP in particular) and research platforms (iWave, WealthEngine, Relationship Science) preferred
- Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights
- Strong attention to detail, ethical judgment, and commitment to donor privacy
Education
A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in data science, statistics, computer science, information systems, or a social science field with a strong quantitative component. A master’s degree in data science, business intelligence, applied analytics, or nonprofit management with a data focus is preferred but not required.
Reports To: VP, Data and InsightsÂ
Salary Range: $140,000 - $160,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications listed above.
Great Perks. Because We Appreciate Great Employees.
TIME OFF
We offer a generous number of vacation days and have the Jewish holidays off as well. Fridays our offices close early (October to March at 3:00 pm and April to September at 4:00 pm). All so you can relax and recharge.
HYBRID MODEL
We’re operating on a hybrid work model: three set days in the office and two days remote. So enjoy the best of both worlds — the comforts of home and the energy of the office.
HEALTH CARE
UJA provides a top-tier medical and dental plan, along with a flexible spending account. We also offer life insurance. And for a small cost you can take part in on-site yoga and exercise classes at our Manhattan office. Wellness matters to us.
PLANNING FOR RETIREMENT
UJA employees can enroll in a pension plan and tax deferred annuity.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Classes, workshops, and compelling speakers will keep you at the top of your game.
COMMUNITY
We come together as a staff to commemorate holidays (from Rosh Hashanah to MLK Day), volunteer at nonprofits, and celebrate our accomplishments together. (Our chocolate chip cookies are legendary!)
SOME MORE (YES, MORE!)
We also offer a commuter benefit plan, so you can get to work and feel good about it.