Current Openings

Career Opportunities

Volunteer Opportunities

Full and part-time positions

Communications Director.

IDA is seeking a dynamic and organized Communications Director to develop and direct comprehensive communications strategies for IDA's campaigns and manage overall public relations for the organization. Responsibilities include pitching and placing stories, developing media plans for campaign activities, writing news releases, and developing print, broadcast and online ad campaigns. Knowledge or experience with advocacy campaigns, media relations, long-term strategic planning a must. Management functions include preparing and presenting quarterly reports to the Board of Directors, participating as a member of the Leadership Team, developing an annual budget and work plan as well as supervising a team including a web developer/designer, writer/editor(s), and online social networks manager. The Communications Director works out of San Rafael, CA.

SPECIFIC DUTIES INCLUDE:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive communications plan, involving multi-channel communications strategies that engage both traditional and new media;
  • Work with the campaign staff to ensure that the media strategy is well integrated in the campaign plans and well positioned for anticipated developments in campaign progress;
  • Generate news releases, op-eds, feature articles, letters to the editor and other media materials;
  • Help shape and refine the overall public image of the organization;
  • Media Relations: pitch and place stories;
  • Work with Development staff to optimize exposure and message to supporters;
  • Coordinate the design and production of promotional and outreach materials including PSA’s, advertisements, posters, etc.;
  • Oversee the organization’s online presence, including website, social networks and other online electronic communications;
  • Assist and back up the President, Executive Director and campaign staff as spokespersons for the organization;
  • Report to Board of Directors quarterly on media successes and strategies;
  • Facilitate media coverage of Special Events, celebrity campaign support and press conferences;
  • Train staff as necessary on media techniques, supervise interns and volunteer staff as appropriate;
  • Maintain in-house systems including media relationship database, research library, photo/video library, in-house audio/video production station(s);
  • Generate or review various outreach pieces including direct mail, annual reports, fact sheets, reports and other publications;
  • Participate in IDA's organizational planning and training sessions;
  • Participate in regular IDA staff and Communications Team meetings;
  • Share office responsibilities to maintain a healthy and safe workplace;
  • Contribute to campaign success as appropriate during external activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Demonstrated success in media/public relations planning, management, and execution; well established contacts with broadcast and print media
  • Excellent computer skills and knowledge of electronic media
  • Ability to work independently, and to be goal-oriented, manage many tasks simultaneously and prioritize well
  • Strong writing and editing skills
  • Solid management and supervisory experience preferred
  • Experienced public speaker
  • Excellent decision-making and problem solving skills
  • Knowledge of animal rights and animal welfare issues.
  • Commitment to IDA’s mission strongly desired.

To apply, please send your salary requirements, resume, and a cover letter detailing your qualifications for the position to employment@idausa.org. This is a fulltime position with benefits, and IDA is not seeking any development consultants at this time. Please, no phone calls.

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to identifying and developing the skills and leadership of people from diverse backgrounds. People of color, differently-abled people and LGBT persons are strongly encouraged to apply.

Development Director.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Development Director is responsible for the implementation and assessment of a multi-faceted fundraising plan. Areas of financial management and direction include: direct mail, planned giving, major gifts, donor cultivation, database management, special events, budgeting, foundation/corporate giving solicitation, online fundraising and grant writing. As a private non-profit organization, IDA relies on the generosity of its donors to fund our critical work and expand our annual budget. The Development Director works closely with the Executive Director, Management Team and Board of Directors to initiate creative new fundraising avenues for the future. This exempt position is located in our world headquarters in San Rafael, CA.

REPORTS TO / SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

  • Department: Development
  • Direct Supervisor: Executive Director

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Develop, monitor and manage comprehensive annual fundraising goals. Identify new sources of funding.
  • Work on special fundraising and cultivation events.
  • Increase membership base through direct mail acquisition and renewal strategies. Design and implement direct mail campaigns. Streamline membership database process.
  • Increase high donor giving through solicitation, cultivation and stewardship. Develop resources and tools to support the Board of Directors, President, Executive Director and other key staff and supporters in soliciting major gifts. Oversee and expand bequests, major gifts and planned giving programs.
  • Research, identify and solicit foundation prospects. Develop, write and track grant proposals and manage reporting requirements.
  • Increase online giving opportunities.
  • Manage development staff and function as part of management team. Help create annual budget and work with staff to keep within targets.
  • Oversee additional development programs, such as workplace giving, United Way, CFC, and car donations.
  • Work with key staff to solicit funds, in-kind gifts and the donation of proceeds from the socially responsible business sector.
  • Work with key staff to develop annual report, magazine and other donor-related publications.
  • Provide training, resources and communications to support and encourage Board-driven fundraising efforts.
  • Oversee the operations of the development department including:
    • Managing the department budget
    • Leading an engaged development team though empowerment, employee development and best practices
    • Ensuring all donors and funders are thanked and stewarded in a professional and timely manner
    • Formulating donor messaging and timely communications in collaboration with the communications team
    • Maintaining a thorough and current knowledge of IDA’s programs, campaign successes and strategies
    • Participating in strategic planning, management meetings and training sessions
    • Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace
  • Assist the ED with other duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Five or more years of development experience with individual and institutional donors;
  • Experience in identification, cultivation, and solicitation of major gifts in the $5,000 to $50,000+ range;
  • Strong leadership and management skills. Experience managing and coaching staff;
  • Outstanding analytical, writing, and oral presentation skills;
  • Demonstrated track record in all aspects of nonprofit fundraising (annual planning, membership programs, planned giving, events and grant writing);
  • Strong work ethic and passion for the mission of the organization. Knowledge of animal rights and animal welfare issues, progressive funders and grassroots activism is a plus;
  • Strong organizational and time management skills;
  • Aptitude for working in a highly diverse environment and related ability to interact with multiple constituencies respectfully;
  • Expertise in donor database use. Experience with Salesforce is a plus;
  • Mastery of basic computer skills (MS Office Suite, Internet, etc).

Executive Director.

In Defense of Animals (IDA) is looking for an inspirational leader with demonstrated commitment to the cause of animal protection to advance the organization toward its goals and prepare it for future challenges.

We are seeking an experienced non-profit management professional with:

  • Strong leadership skills with proven ability to inspire and lead a team
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Demonstrated success in fundraising
  • Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, management, and organizational governance at a senior level
  • Experience developing and guiding advocacy campaigns
  • Experience creating and working within tight budgets

JOB SUMMARY:

The Executive Director is responsible for the successful leadership and management of the organization according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership

  • Participate with the Board of Directors in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide IDA
  • Identify, assess, and inform the Board of Directors of internal and external issues that affect IDA
  • Act as a professional advisor to the Board of Director on all aspects of the organization's activities
  • Foster effective team work between the Board and the Executive Director and between the Executive Director and staff
  • Act as a spokesperson for the organization
  • Conduct official correspondence on behalf of the Board as appropriate and jointly with the Board when appropriate
  • Represent IDA at community activities to enhance IDA’s community profile

Operational planning and management

  • Develop an operational plan which incorporates goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of the organization
  • Ensure that the operation of IDA meets the expectations of its clients, Board, Donors and Funders
  • Oversee the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the organization as a whole
  • Draft policies for the approval of the Board and prepare procedures to implement the organizational policies; review existing policies on an annual basis and recommend changes to the Board as appropriate
  • Ensure that personnel, client, donor and volunteer files are securely stored and privacy/confidentiality is maintained
  • Provide support to the Board by preparing meeting agenda and supporting materials

Program planning and management

  • Oversee the planning, implementation and evaluation of IDA’s programs and services
  • Ensure that the programs and services offered contribute to IDA's mission and reflect the priorities of the Board
  • Monitor the day-to-day delivery of the programs and services to maintain or improve quality
  • Oversee the planning, implementation, execution and evaluation of special projects

Human resources planning and management

  • Determine staffing requirements for organizational management and program delivery
  • Oversee the implementation of the human resources policies, procedures and practices including the development of job description for all staff
  • Establish a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations
  • Participate in process to recruit, interview and select staff that have the right technical and personal abilities to help further IDA's mission
  • Ensure that all staff receives an orientation to the organization and that appropriate training is provided
  • Implement a performance management process for all staff which includes monitoring the performance of staff on an on-going basis and conducting an annual performance review
  • Coach and mentor staff as appropriate to improve performance
  • Discipline staff when necessary using appropriate techniques; release staff when necessary using appropriate and legally defensible procedures

Financial planning and management

  • Work with staff and the Board (Finance Committee) to prepare a comprehensive budget
  • Work with the Board to secure adequate funding for the operation of the organization
  • Work with Development Director to research funding sources, oversee the development of fund raising plans and pursue funding proposals to increase the funds of the organization
  • Participate in fundraising activities as appropriate
  • Approve expenditures within the authority delegated by the Board
  • Ensure that sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed
  • Administer the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitor the monthly cash flow of the organization
  • Provide the Board with comprehensive, regular reports on the revenues and expenditure of the organization
  • Ensure that the organization complies with all legislation covering taxation and withholding payments

Community relations/advocacy

  • Communicate with stakeholders to keep them informed of the work of IDA and to identify changes in the various communities served
  • Establish good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with community groups, funders, politicians, and other organizations and coalitions of which IDA is a member to help achieve the goals as articulated in the plan

Risk management

  • Identify and evaluate the risks to the organization's people (clients, staff, management, volunteers), property, finances, goodwill, and image and implement measures to control risks
  • Ensure that the Board of Directors and the organization carries appropriate and adequate insurance coverage
  • Ensure that the Board and staff understand the terms, conditions and limitations of the insurance coverage

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

  • Four-year college degree or equivalent experience.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Knowledge of leadership and management principles as they relate to non-profit/ voluntary organizations
  • Knowledge of all federal and state legislation applicable to 501(c)3 organizations including: employment standards, occupational health and safety, fundraising, taxation, health coverage, etc...
  • Knowledge of current community challenges and opportunities relating to the mission of the organization
  • Knowledge of human resources management
  • Knowledge of financial management
  • Knowledge of project management

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

The Executive Director should demonstrate competence in some or all of the following:

  • Adaptability: Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile and/or tolerant in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Behave Ethically: Understand ethical behavior and business practices, and ensure that own behavior and the behavior of others is consistent with these standards and aligns with IDA’s values.
  • Build Relationships: Establish and maintain positive working relationships with others, both internally and externally, to achieve IDA’s goals.
  • Communicate Effectively: Speak, listen and write in a clear, thorough and timely manner using appropriate and effective communication tools and techniques.
  • Creativity/Innovation: Develop new and unique ways to improve operations and to create new opportunities.
  • Focus on Client Needs: Anticipate, understand, and respond to the needs of internal and external clients to meet or exceed their expectations within the organizational parameters.
  • Foster Teamwork: Work cooperatively and effectively with others to set goals, resolve problems, and make decisions that enhance organizational effectiveness.
  • Lead: Positively influence others to achieve results that are in the best interest of IDA.
  • Make Decisions: Assess situations to determine the importance, urgency and risks, and make clear decisions which are timely and in the best interests of IDA.
  • Organize: Set priorities, develop a work schedule, monitor progress towards goals, and track details, data, information and activities
  • Plan: Determine strategies to move IDA forward, set goals, create and implement actions plans, and evaluate the process and results.
  • Solve Problems: Assess problem situations to identify causes, gather and process relevant information, generate possible solutions, and make recommendations and/or resolve the problem.
  • Think Strategically: Assesses options and actions based on trends and conditions in the environment, and the vision and values demonstrated by the mission statement and organizational plan.

Experience

  • 5 or more years of progressive management experience in a non-profit organization

To apply, please send your salary requirements, resume, and a cover letter detailing your qualifications for the position to employment@idausa.org. This is a fulltime position with benefits, and IDA is not seeking any development consultants at this time. Please, no phone calls.

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to identifying and developing the skills and leadership of people from diverse backgrounds. People of color, differently-abled people and LGBT persons are strongly encouraged to apply.

Volunteer Positions

Volunteers are always needed at In Defense of Animals! We have many volunteer positions within our world headquarters in San Rafael, California, and just as many virtual volunteer positions. If you want to make a difference for animals around the world, we can use you to do anything from office tasks to activism to marketing (and much more).

Please email volunteer@idausa.org or call 415.448.0048 to find out how you can make a difference for animals in need, and make sure to sign up for our action alerts for local issues, events and other opportunities to help In Defense of Animals: http://ga0.org/indefenseofanimals/join.html

IDA needs the help of caring and compassionate volunteers like you. Here's just some of our open volunteer positions:

Admin Support

Do you like to be around people who share your love of animals? Do you want to do meaningful work in a stimulating office environment with like-minded people? Our administrative support team is the foundation to In Defense of Animals' work and is looking for volunteers to make IDA's efforts even more powerful. If you can bring your aptitude for spreadsheet updates, mail merges, database maintenance, written and phone correspondence, filing, and other like tasks to In Defense of Animals, then we need you to become an integral part of our efforts to be a voice for the voiceless. This position is located in our headquarters in San Rafael, California and we ask for a minimum weekly commitment of two hours. Who knew that data entry could feel so good?

Skills desired: Previous office experience and a fluency with Microsoft Office.

Pluses: A love of animals, a sense of humor, and an appreciation for vegan snacks.

Animal Abuse Investigators

In Defense of Animals is looking for motivated and friendly volunteers to research reported animal abuse instances that are called into our headquarters. Do you have experience working against animal cruelty? Do you want to work within the guidelines and support of IDA to assist the public? Do you love to help people help animals? This could be the ideal volunteer position for you! Please contact us to find out how you can help make a difference and be the first line of defense for animals around the world. This position is located in our headquarters in San Rafael, California, although background research can be done from anywhere.

Skills desired: Knowledge of animal cruelty laws (or willingness to learn) and good empathy and communication skills when interfacing with the public.

Pluses: Experience in the field, a love of animals, a sense of humor, and an appreciation for vegan snacks.

Graphic Designer

If you have an eye for beauty and a heart for animals, please consider using your graphic design talents to help stop animal exploitation and abuse. In Defense of Animals is looking for a skilled and motivated volunteer who can create high-end and beautiful banners to match event themes and concepts and/or work on powerful HTML email letter design. Banners will be posted on the IDA website, MySpace, and other partner sites and emails will be widely distributed to help get the word out about important animal events and issues. If you have a strong understanding of design concepts, and can create a beautiful banner or powerful HTML email design on a fairly fast turn-around, please talk to us about how you can support IDA from the comfort of your own home. This position is remote.

Skills desired: Should be fluent in Photoshop, hold a strong understanding and love of design, and have a portfolio of work.

Internet

If you have a computer and will cyber-travel, please consider being an Internet volunteer with In Defense of Animals! Some cyber opportunities include testing links on IDA's web pages or helping to maintain the accuracy of our website information; maintaining and posting IDA sanctuary Project Hope’s animals on web-based adoption sites; or posting My Space banners. If you have a mouse, a modem and a dream, please consider being an Internet volunteer for IDA. This position can be remote or in our San Rafael offices, and requires a minimum time commitment of two hours per week.

Skills desired: Must be able to navigate web pages and have access to the Internet.

Literature Fulfillment

Are you a bookworm who loves all other worms, walruses and wombats If you believe that knowledge is power and education is key and you want to make a difference for animals around the world, please consider helping In Defense of Animals send out informational materials. Help us change the world one worm, one walrus, one wombat and one package at a time. Our Lit Fulfillment volunteers fulfill literature orders, keep inventory, and use IDA's mailroom to package orders. This position is based in our San Rafael offices, and requires a minimum time commitment of two hours per week. Has fulfillment always felt this fulfilling?

Skills desired: Attention to detail and organizational prowess.

Pluses: A love of animals, a sense of humor, and an appreciation for vegan snacks.

Reception

In Defense of Animals is looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to greet our guests, answer our phones, take messages, give out information on and from IDA, forward calls from the public to our staff, and make thank you calls! If you have a good phone voice and love to talk to people, this could be the ideal volunteer position for you. Please contact us to find out how you can help make a difference and be the first line of defense for animals around the world. This position is located in our headquarters in San Rafael, California.

Pluses: A love of animals, a sense of humor, and an appreciation for vegan snacks.

Researcher

In Defense of Animals is seeking individuals with solid research skills to help with IDA's Reallocation project. Our Reallocation project asks that all institutions which sustain and promote scientific research implement a dedicated plan for re-directing funds and resources away from projects involving animals and apply them to non-animal methods. IDA's Reallocation Initiative proposes that a minimal five percent annual reallocation of funding and resources be applied toward non-animal technologies.

We are looking for skilled researchers with backgrounds in scientific and/or biomedical research to research biotech companies which do not use animals and are developing animal free methods, and to research and create a summary of Nobel prizes over the past 10-20 years in science and medicine that were awarded to projects not using animals. We can also use individuals who have performed in-depth research at the college or graduate level to work on a variety of other projects. If you have a background in research and want to make a difference for animals suffering in laboratories, please contact us to see how you can help.

Skills desired: An academic and/or professional background in research.

Pluses: A background in scientific or biomedical research, and a university affiliation and access to a university library.

Tabling/Outreach

Do you have a love of animals, education, and outreach? In Defense of Animals is looking for committed, social, confident and dedicated people to represent IDA at events and cities around the country. Studies have shown that people respond best to new ideas when approached in a respectful, empathic and nonjudgmental manner. We ask that our tabling team be able to bring these skills to the table! We ask that our volunteers work hard, not be afraid to schlep, appreciate teamwork, and also be able to enjoy some perks. Our tabling team receives free entry to events and the opportunity to have some fun. Outreach can also include leafleting and demo opportunities; please let us know you preferred area of interest. We ask that our outreach volunteers act as IDA representatives, and be able and willing to learn about IDA campaigns, programs, and history to share with the public.

Skills desired: Should love all animals, including humans, and be able to communicate in an articulate, respectful, empathic and nonjudgmental manner.

Writer

In Defense of Animals is looking for some adept and experienced writers to take our work to the next level. Our writers are integral to our work in educating and alerting the public to breaking issues that affect animals around the world. IDA is seeking skilled writers to work on a variety of projects, including press releases, news alerts, brochures, web pages, blogs, and advocacy letters. If you are looking to expand your portfolio and help some animals, please consider this opportunity! This position can be remote and project-based.

Skills desired: Stellar writing abilities, a solid understanding of animal rights, and a portfolio of writing samples to share.