Exciting Opportunity for Compassionate Veterinarians! Join Ruff Start Rescue's Life-Saving Team! 

Are you a dedicated and caring veterinarian with a passion for shelter medicine? Ruff Start Rescue invites you to be a part of our mission-driven team as a Relief Veterinarian! We are looking for someone who is available to perform high-volume spay and neuters in a supportive and collaborative environment. This is an incredible opportunity to make a huge impact on the lives of animals in need while working in a positive and compassionate atmosphere.

About Us:

Ruff Start Rescue is a non-profit animal welfare organization on a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. Located in the heart of Princeton, MN, our dedicated team strives to create a compassionate community for animals and people. Be part of an organization where your skills and passion make a tangible difference daily!

Why Choose Ruff Start Rescue?

• Work in an environment where authenticity is valued, creating a culture of trust and collaboration.

• Benefit from exposure to diverse experiences in the animal welfare sector.

• Collaborate with a team that values your passion and dedication.

• Experience a positive and supportive work environment where teamwork is essential to achieving our shared goals.

• Find personal satisfaction in knowing that your work directly contributes to creating a better life for animals and their families.

• Be part of an organization that recognizes and celebrates the impact of each team member.

Availability

• We are flexible! We are looking for a part-time or relief veterinarian.

 Your responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing all aspects of assigned patients, from providing high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter surgeries to additional surgical procedures and dentistry.

• Knowledge of shelter medicine principles to contribute to rescue animals' medical care and diagnosis.

• Physical examination, pre and post-operative care, anesthetic protocols, patient monitoring, and emergency response.

Qualifications:

Joining our dynamic team requires the following:

• DVM Degree with an active veterinary license in the State of Minnesota.

• Ability to perform high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter surgeries; candidates with at least two years of anesthetic and surgical experience.

• Demonstrated knowledge of shelter medicine.

Personal Characteristics:

Bring your unique qualities to our team:

• Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and discretion in handling sensitive situations.

• Strong interpersonal skills – outgoing, patient, professional, and able to connect with various people.

• Show compassion and empathy for foster families and our animals.

• Work collaboratively as a team player, supporting the organization's overall goals.

• Possess a possibility-driven, proactive, personable, energetic, collaborative, and tactful approach.

• Maintaining a strong drive for results while navigating unexpected challenges calmly.

• Showcase excellent organizational skills to contribute to our life-saving initiatives.

What we offer

 Competitive pay:  $60+ Based on experience

Join a team of passionate professionals who share the same passion as you! An organization that strongly focuses on a healthy work-life balance and great team dynamic.

Reports to: Director of Programs

How to Apply: Please include your resume and cover letter.

The Senior Development Officer will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding relationships with donors capable of making gifts of $10,000 and above. This role will ensure Ruff Start Rescue's supporters feel seen, valued, and inspired by their impact on the lives of animals and people.

In addition to leading our major donor strategy, the Development Officer should bring an understanding of capital campaign readiness and the ability to help position Ruff Start Rescue for future campaign opportunities if needed. While capital campaign experience is not a primary requirement for this role, the position may support early planning, donor strategy, and internal preparation should Ruff Start Rescue move toward a future campaign.

Availability: This is a salaried position with a time commitment of at least 40 hours a week. Depending on off-site meetings and responsibilities, you will be required to be in the office (Princeton) 2-3 days per week. The remaining work days can be remote. Daily emailing and/or phone calls are a must. 

Essential Job Functions:

Fundraising & Donor Cultivation

• Manage a portfolio of 125–175 major gift donors and prospects capable of giving $10,000+, including a mix of current supporters and new relationships.

• Create and implement individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans tailored to donor interests and aligned with Ruff Start’s funding priorities.

• Conduct a minimum of 100 in-person or virtual donor visits annually, frequently requiring off-site travel using personal transportation, alongside regular outreach via phone, email, and mail.

• Build strong relationships by offering personalized donor experiences—such as on-site tours, tailored communications, and meaningful touchpoints.

• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Advancement Director, and Board members on strategic donor engagement and joint solicitations.

• Track donor progress and opportunities within a structured major gift pipeline, identifying prospects for unrestricted, restricted, and future capital campaign support.

• Participate in donor appreciation events and represent the organization at external functions as needed.

Strategy & Campaign Planning

• Develop annual major donor program plans and long-range fundraising strategies, including measurable goals, cultivation timelines, and donor engagement budgets that align with Ruff Start Rescue’s strategic plan.

• Prepare for and lead all aspects of a future capital campaign, including strengthening donor relationships, identifying key prospects, building internal readiness, setting goals, coordinating volunteers, developing campaign materials, and tracking donor engagement.

• Work with the marketing team to develop compelling materials and donor-facing proposals that inspire giving.

Donor Research & Data Management

• Track and document all major gift activities—including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship—in the CRM system.

• Use data insights to optimize outreach efforts and evaluate strategy effectiveness.

Collaboration & Organizational Support

• Work closely with the advancement team to ensure consistency in messaging and donor experience.

• Participate in strategic planning discussions, team meetings, and the advancement board committee sessions as needed.

• Represent Ruff Start Rescue at events and in the community to build visibility and expand networks of support.

Skills and Requirements:

• Passion for animal welfare and a deep alignment with Ruff Start Rescue’s mission and values.

• Minimum of 5 years of nonprofit development and fundraising experience, with a strong focus on individual giving and major donor cultivation.

• Demonstrated success in securing gifts of $25,000+ and leading or playing a key role in capital campaigns; must have the skills and confidence to lead Ruff Start’s future campaigns without external consultants.

• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills, with a donor-centered approach and the ability to build lasting relationships.

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with attention to detail.

• Ability to create compelling, personalized proposals and presentations for donor engagement.

• Skilled in donor and contact management systems (CRM)

• Confident public speaker with strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required.

• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation for frequent off-site donor meetings.

Physical Demands 

The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Position involves sitting for extended periods of time while working at a computer terminal. Employee must be able to communicate effectively in a typical office environment with a standard level of office noise. Occasional standing, bending, walking and lifting (30 lbs) is also required. 

• Employee will be required to be a part of animal transport, which will expose the employee to animals (primarily dogs/cats), dirt, dust, uneven surfaces, and outdoor weather conditions. Noise will typically be moderate.

Meetings/Participation:

• Donor Engagement: Attend and support donor meetings, events, and on-site tours, occasionally requiring evening or weekend availability.

• Event & Program Support: Attend signature events, donor gatherings, and annual volunteer appreciation events.

• Organizational Involvement: Participate in internal planning meetings, team discussions, and advancement board committee meetings as needed.

• Community Representation: Represent the organization at external functions and in the community to help build awareness, expand networks, and foster relationships with donors and partners.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• An extroverted and communicative relationship-builder who thrives on creating tailored donor experiences, strategic communications, and meaningful engagement.

• Strategic and creative, with a strong focus on execution and results

• Emotionally intelligent and skilled at building long-term, trust-based relationships

• Calm, adaptable, and proactive in dynamic nonprofit environments

• Detail-oriented and data-driven, with a big-picture mindset

• A mission-driven storyteller who can clearly articulate the impact of Ruff Start’s work

• Highly organized, able to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities and deadlines

• Grounded in integrity, ethical fundraising, and confidentiality

Benefits:

Health & Insurance

• Health insurance available the 1st of the month after 30 days; RSR covers 50% of the employee premium.

• Optional insurance plans available after 90 days (employee-paid at discounted group rates), including:

• Dental, Vision, Life Insurance

• Short-Term Disability

• Accident, Critical Illness, Cancer, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance

Retirement & Time Off

• 401(k) plan with up to 3% match after 90 days.

• Paid Time Off (PTO):

• Year 1: 10 days

• Years 2–3: 15 days

• Years 4–5: 20 days

• Years 6–7: 25 days

• Year 8+: 30 days (PTO is prorated from anniversary date upon moving into a new bracket)

• 7 paid holidays annually; observed on the closest workday if falling on a weekend.

• Paid parental leave

Professional Development & Perks

• Up to $200 annually for professional development.

• Employee discount on Ruff Start Rescue merchandise and services.

Salary: $60,000-$75,000

Reports to: Director of Advancement

Applicants, please note: to be considered for this position, you must submit a cover letter in addition to a resume

We are seeking individuals committed to our mission who want to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. We also offer a wide range of engagement opportunities, including organizational events and workshops, to help you learn more about animal rescue and volunteer opportunities. Our transport days also allow you to directly interact with the animals you’re saving!

As a board member, you will join a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers, help shape the organization's direction, and build your skills and experience in nonprofit leadership. Whether you're an experienced board member or taking your first step into nonprofit leadership, we welcome your application!

Qualifications

• Knowledge of veterinary laws, regulations, and professional standards.

• Must have an active DVM License in Minnesota and be willing to keep the license active during Board terms

• In good standing with the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine

Commitment

• Term Length - 2 years w/option to renew

• Time Commitment - 4-6 hours per month (depending on areas of expertise, committee assignments, etc.)The board meets monthly through Zoom and in person on a quarterly basis.

Attend and participate in monthly board meetings, annual one-day retreats, workshops and other Board development activities.

Actively participate in one or more committees of the board. Provide feedback and input to committee reports.

Attend, support, and participate in at least two signature organizational events, the annual holiday event, and the fundraising gala.

Ability to check your organizational email weekly and respond in a timely manner.

Additional Board Support

Show passion in furthering the mission of Ruff Start Rescue® and be informed about the organization’s mission, services, policies, and programs.

Assist the board in carrying out its fiduciary responsibilities by ensuring adequate financial resources; oversee financial and risk management.

Participate and support any capital campaigns, including making a personal annual financial contribution and assist the organization in finding additional donation sources.

Take the first step towards making a difference, and apply now!

Description: The Grants & Development  will support and contribute to the development team by managing Ruff Start Rescue’s donor database, overseeing the donation process, and ensuring timely gift processing and donor acknowledgment. This role will also play a key part in donor cultivation, stewardship, and in-kind donation coordination. Additionally, you will be responsible for all aspects of grant management, including, but not limited to grant writing, prospect research, reporting, grant fulfillment, and interdepartmental communication and collaboration. You will also manage development volunteers. Working closely with both the development and accounting teams, the Grants & Development Coordinator will represent Ruff Start Rescue with professionalism, organization, and a warm, donor-focused approach.

Availability: This is a full-time, hourly position of 40 hours per week, requiring year-round full-time availability. The position follows a Monday–Friday, 8 am–4 pm schedule, with occasional nights and weekends as needed. Three days per week will be remote (work-from-home), and two days will be in the Princeton office. Fully remote work is not an option for this position.

Lead and Supervise:

• Volunteer Donation Recorders

• Volunteer Animal Supply Gift Coordinators

• Grant Volunteer

Essential Job Functions:

Gift Processing and Data Management & Administrative Support

• Actively maintain the Development Team’s DMS (Donor Management System), updating pertinent information as it relates to donor actions, proposals, appeals, reports, gifts, planned giving, and relevant contact information.

• Responsible for all gift processing in our DMS, along with designating donations for the accounting manager.

• Ensure data integrity through accurate data entry and ongoing clean-up efforts

• Manage the timely acknowledgment of gifts and ensure that all types of donations (cash, pledges, matching gifts, grants, special events, in-kind donations, planned gifts, etc.) are properly documented and in accordance with IRS requirements.

• Provide administrative support to the Director of Development, 

• Assist with the writing and editing of appeals, acknowledgments, donor news, reports, and proposals

• Prepare accurate research and reports on prospects and assemble materials for cultivation and solicitation visits for the Development Director, Development Officer, and Executive Director. 

• Collaborate with Accounting Manager. 

• Oversee the development of membership subscriptions and renewals -Examples: CFC, Guidestar, Charity Navigator

• Other duties as assigned

Grant Administration 

• Provide prospect research for potential grant opportunities for programs, services, operations, and other needs within the organization

• Maintain a list of timelines/deadlines and tasks associated with grants at all stages

• Submit a minimum of 40 grants per fiscal year

• Uphold relationships with foundation representatives and grantors as appropriate

• Oversee post-award grant management, reporting, and communication with funders.

• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure proper utilization of restricted funds in accordance with grant guidelines. Provide regular reminders and accountability to staff, track fund usage, and ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders.

• Provide feedback and guidance to members of leadership pertaining to grant opportunities and secured funds to ensure compliance with funder guidelines and project parameters.

• Provide monthly progress updates and reporting to the board, leadership and finance commitee on grant submissions, pipelines, and secured funds.

Donor Cultivation & Stewardship 

• Respond to internal and external constituents and project a professional image for Ruff Start through customer interaction and maintain a high degree of confidentiality as they work with donors, volunteers, staff, and the public.

• Communicate with donors in person, on the phone, and by email.

Volunteer Oversight

• Train and oversee volunteer Animal Supply Gift Coordinators to handle all incoming in-kind donation requests.

• Train and oversee Development Volunteers

• Maintain regular communication with volunteers; fill in whenever volunteer vacancies exist.

• Update Donation Procedures and other donation training materials as needed

• Ensure processes are efficient and effective; make recommendations and changes as needed

Required qualifications:

• A passion for animals and Ruff Start Rescue’s mission. 

• Minimum of two years of experience with data entry and data management in a CRM

• Minimum of 2 years experience with grant research, proposal writing, and managing grant timelines and reporting, preferably with a focus on animal welfare.

• Minimum 2 years proven ability to meet grant submission deadlines and quotas annually and manage post-award requirements in a timely manner.

• Proficiency in advanced computing functions such as downloads and merge/purge operations from the database, querying, and data analysis to generate ad hoc reports to meet specifications and create complex presentations, including advanced formatting. 

• Significant attention to detail and superior organizational skills

• Excellent interpersonal and public relations skills, professional phone skills, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write and edit donor communications, grant reports, and other development materials.

• Ability to self-start, prioritize, and multi-task, along with the ability to work quickly and efficiently.

• Ability to quickly adapt to new equipment and technology, trends and organizational needs

• Ability to work alongside and collaborate with all departments within the organization: Board of Directors, Finance Committee, Leadership, Staff and Volunteers.

• Have access to reliable smartphone and computer with Zoom, phone call and email capabilities to host trainings/meetings, complete job duties and communicate with staff and funders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in business, non-profit administration, finance, or a related field

• Animal welfare experience in development, grants and programs

• Strong communication, both written and verbal, and interpersonal skills to build relationships with funders, particularly those with an interest in animal welfare.

• Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness in managing grant details, timelines, and data, ensuring compliance with all requirements.

• Experience with budget preparation and financial reporting for grants, ensuring funds are used effectively and in compliance with grant requirements.

Physical Demands 

The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Position involves sitting for extended periods of time while working at a computer terminal. Employee must be able to communicate effectively in a typical office environment with a standard level of office noise. Occasional standing, bending, walking and lifting (30 lbs) is also required. 

• Employee will be required to be a part of animal transport, which will expose the employee to animals (primarily dogs/cats), dirt, dust, uneven surfaces, and outdoor weather conditions. Noise will typically be moderate.

Personal Characteristics:

• Positive Approach and Resilience

• Proactive and Driven

• Independent, Goal-Oriented Work Style

• Integrity and Discretion

• Dependable and Mission-Aligned

Reports To

Director of Development

Compensation:$40,000- $50,000 Annually, Exempt, Salary Position

PTO 

• First-year 10 days, prorated from 90 days

• Years 1 and 2 15 days (3 Weeks)

• Year 3 and 4 20 Days (4 Weeks)

• Year 5 and 6 25 Days (5 Weeks)

• Year 7 + 30 Days (6 Weeks)

• When an employee rolls over to a new year bracket, we would prorate from their anniversary day.

• Ruff Start Rescue recognizes seven paid holidays each year. Should a holiday fall on a weekend, the holiday will be observed on the workday closest to the holiday.

• Employee Discount

• Professional Development courses covers up to $200 annually. 

• Paid parental leave

Availability: 40+ hours a week. Must have a flexible schedule and availability. Weekend and evening hours may be required monthly. Must be on-site at the Princeton office a minimum of 3 days a week, and the rest of the week is remote. 

Essential Job Functions: 

Strategic Marketing & Brand Leadership

• Develop and own a 12-24 month marketing strategy aligned with Ruff Start Rescue’s mission, strategic plan, fundraising goals, and long-term brand positioning.

• Establish and communicate clear annual marketing priorities that guide organization-wide decision-making.

• Serve as the internal authority on brand voice, messaging standards, and storytelling strategy.

• Lead cross-department collaboration to ensure marketing effectively supports development, programs, operations, and community engagement.

Brand & Messaging Strategy

• Define and maintain a cohesive brand identity across all digital, print, media, and campaign communications.

• Ensure messaging is transparent, mission-driven, emotionally compelling, and aligned with long-term trust-building goals.

• Guide the organization in strategic storytelling decisions, including what stories should (and should not) be told and why.

• Oversee and evaluate all marketing materials and initiatives to ensure alignment with mission, audience engagement, and impact.

Data-Driven Marketing & Benchmarking

• Establish performance benchmarks for website, email, social media, and digital campaigns based on peer nonprofit and industry standards.

• Regularly benchmark Ruff Start Rescue against comparable organizations and translate analytics into actionable strategy.

• Monitor digital trends, platform updates, and algorithm changes; adapt marketing strategy accordingly.

• Provide monthly performance reporting to leadership with analysis, insights, and forward-looking recommendations.

Digital Strategy & Website Leadership

• Own website strategy, architecture, and user experience with a focus on clarity, accessibility, SEO, and conversion.

• Lead website planning, implementation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Ensure all digital touchpoints support fundraising, engagement, and long-term brand authority.

Fundraising & Campaign Integration

• Partner with the Advancement team to align marketing and fundraising strategies.

• Lead marketing support for major initiatives, including impact reports, capital campaign communications, annual campaigns, and donor engagement efforts.

• Strategically differentiate and execute engagement campaigns versus fundraising campaigns.

Team Leadership & Accountability

• Lead and develop marketing staff and volunteers, including the Social Media Specialist and creative contributors.

• Define performance standards grounded in industry benchmarks and set measurable OKRs aligned with growth and fundraising goals.

• Conduct regular 1:1 meetings and performance evaluations.

• Delegate execution while retaining strategic oversight and accountability.

• Oversee marketing budget and ensure merchandise and digital fundraising efforts meet established goals. 

Content & Campaign Execution

• Oversee digital marketing campaigns across social media, email, website, and paid advertising.

• Direct creation of high-quality, brand-aligned print and digital collateral.

• Manage email marketing strategy, including newsletters, fundraising promotions, and automated workflows.

• Ensure consistent publishing cadence and build a content library that strengthens search visibility and long-term digital authority.

Qualifications and Leadership Competencies:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Graphic Design, or related field required.

• 5-8+ years of progressive marketing and communications experience, including demonstrated success leading strategy, not just executing tactics.

• Proven experience developing and implementing long-term marketing strategies aligned with organizational growth, brand positioning, and fundraising objectives.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and mobilize teams, including staff and skilled volunteers, by setting clear direction, establishing performance standards, delegating execution appropriately, and maintaining accountability for results.

• Strong experience in nonprofit or mission-driven marketing preferred, with a deep understanding of fundraising communications and trust-based storytelling.

• Advanced understanding of brand governance, messaging strategy, email marketing, website strategy and SEO, social media performance metrics, digital advertising, and campaign integration.

• Demonstrated ability to translate analytics, benchmarking research, and industry trends into actionable strategy and measurable performance goals.

• Experience managing multiple high-level initiatives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining clarity, composure, and brand consistency.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and/or Canva Pro; familiarity with website CMS platforms, email marketing systems, CRMs, and Google Analytics required.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft emotionally compelling, mission-aligned storytelling that builds engagement and drives giving.

Personal Characteristics: 

• Demonstrates honesty, integrity, and discretion, particularly when handling sensitive stories, donor information, and internal dynamics.

• Exhibits maturity, sound judgment, and confident decision-making, even under pressure.

• Possibility-driven and proactive, bringing forward ideas and solutions rather than waiting for direction.

• Calm and steady in high-volume, emotionally charged environments common in animal rescue.

• Highly organized and systems-oriented, with strong attention to detail and follow-through.Logical, data-informed problem solver who researches context, avoids bias, and prioritizes what is in the best interest of Ruff Start Rescue.

• Collaborative and respectful, valuing cross-departmental partnership and the essential role of volunteers in accomplishing the mission.

• Deep passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to professionally advocating for Ruff Start Rescue’s mission and No-Kill philosophy.

Physical Demands 

• The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• The position involves sitting for extended periods of time while working at a computer terminal. Employee must be able to communicate effectively in a typical office environment with a standard level of office noise. Occasional standing, bending, walking and lifting (30 lbs) is also required. 

• Employee will be required to be a part of animal transport, which will expose the employee to animals (primarily dogs/cats), dirt, dust, uneven surfaces, and outdoor weather conditions. Noise will typically be moderate.

Benefits: 

• Health insurance will be available to full-time employees on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. RSR will pay 50% of the employee's monthly premium. 

• Retirement plans with up to a 3% employee contribution are available after 90 days.

• Additional insurance options are available after 90 days - you pay 100% premium at a discounted group rate. 

○ Short-term disability 

○ Life Insurance 

○ Dental Insurance 

○ Accident Insurance 

○ Hospital Indemnity Insurance 

○ Critical Illness Insurance 

○ Cancer Insurance 

○ Vision Insurance 

• PTO 

• First-year 10 days 

• Years 1 and 2 15 days (3 Weeks)

• Year 3 and 4 20 Days (4 Weeks)

• Year 5 and 6 25 Days (5 Weeks)

• Year 7 + 30 Days (6 Weeks)

• When an employee rolls over to a new year bracket we would prorate from their anniversary day.

• Ruff Start Rescue recognizes seven paid holidays each year. Should a holiday fall on a weekend, the holiday will be observed on the workday closest to the holiday.

• Employee Discount

• Professional Development courses covered up to $200 annually. 

• Paid parental leave

Reports To: COO

Salary: $70,000- 80,000

Applicants, please note: to be considered for this position, you must submit a cover letter in addition to a resume