Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Advancement Assistant III for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Reporting to the Director of Alumni Chapters, the Advancement Assistant III is responsible for administrative functions for the chapter program, including but not limited to vendor outreach and contracts, invoice payments, and travel reimbursements. The Advancement Assistant III will also assist with onboarding and training of volunteer leaders, tracking the compliance of chapter leadership, and management of online systems and SharePoint.
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Administrative Duties and Volunteer Management: Assist Chapters staff to steward volunteer leaders through various initiatives. Serve as the primary staff lead in managing and communicating with up to 95 In-State Area Reps, under the guidance and direction of the Director. Identifying In-State Area Reps as part of the strategic vision and assist in building out the program to
include a communication framework and a stewardship timeline.
Coordination of the Chapter Program: Assist in maintaining Chapters materials for volunteer leaders to use when guiding programming in their area. Plan and set up for chapter events, onboardings, trainings, workshops, and meetings for volunteer leaders (both on and off campus). Assist with the planning and implementation of the annual Chapter Leaders Workship event. Represent the Alumni Relations team and Chapters program in a variety of capacities, including staff meetings and other university events.
UT Alumni Program Support: Provide staffing for Alumni Board meetings and other alumni council meetings as needed (and available). Provide staffing for campus events such as Homecoming, lifelong learning programs, young alumni events, student events, and athletic-related events as needed. Serve as a university and/or Alumni Relations representative at official receptions, events, etc. Participate in the Alumni Professionals of the SEC (APSEC) Chapter/Club Leaders group. Serve as a point of contact and reference for alumni and friends who have questions or concerns about various areas of the university.
QualificationsRequired Education and Experience The candidate who fills the Advancement Assistant III position is required to have:
- High School Degree of Equivalent and 3-4 years of professional experience or Associate's degree and 1 year of experience in a people-oriented field (sales, marketing, communications, public relations, volunteer management)
- Excellent communication, oral and written skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Programs
A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required due to travel responsibilities of the position. UTFI reserves the right to consider all appropriate circumstances. In general, any significant driving offense less than 12 months old will eliminate the application from consideration for the position.
Preferred Education and Experience In addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
- Previous experience in alumni relations, student affairs/life, higher education, working with volunteers, and/or experience as a volunteer is desired.
- Experience in non-profit work and volunteer management
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before February 18, 2026, via our DASH application system. Applications must include a completed candidate profile, cover letter, and resume. Candidates selected to move forward in the evaluation process will be asked to provide contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without explicit permission of the candidate.
When determining minimum qualifications, only information entered into the candidate profile can be considered. Please ensure your candidate profile is completed in its entirety as it relates to qualifying education/work experience.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.
Questions about the search may be directed to
hr@utfi.org.
Target Start Date: March/April 2026
Benefits: The Foundation's greatest asset is our team. Foundation employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:
- Generous paid leave, accruing up to 12 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days
- Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members
- Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
- Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods
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The Foundation: The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization that serves as the preferred channel for private contributions benefiting students and faculty within the UT System. With a vision of being one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, UTFI is committed to enhancing the educational landscape across the University of Tennessee campuses.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been advancing knowledge and enriching lives since its founding in 1794. Tennessee's flagship public research university, UT Knoxville is a diverse community whose shared commitment to discovery, creativity, and education combines with a tradition of service and engagement to carry the Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. UT's campus-home to more than 36,000 students and 9,000 faculty and staff members-is part of the vibrant city of Knoxville, located on the Tennessee River with the Great Smoky Mountains nearby.
The UT System: The University of Tennessee System is comprised of campuses at Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski, Martin and the Health Science Center at Memphis; the Institute of Agriculture; and the Institute for Public Service.
The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, and parental status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law. Job Info - Job Identification 6859
- Job Category Advancement
- Posting Date 02/04/2026, 08:32 AM
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 1609 Melrose Avenue, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US
