Grant Writer
I. JOB SUMMARY
Under the Chief Development Officer (CDO), the Grant Writer is responsible for generating revenue through ongoing grant opportunities for MCHS. Their duties include researching funding opportunities, drafting and submitting polished grant proposals, meeting deadlines, and maintaining a positive and amenable working relationship with all liaisons from various funding sources, program staff and personnel.
II. DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Study and understand the history, structure, objectives, programs and financial needs of MCHS.
- Research grant opportunities from government and non-government agencies.
- Determine proposal concepts by identifying opportunities and needs, researching requests for proposal, attending strategy meetings and community conversations, and developing a strong understanding of the external partners work, programs, priorities, innovations, history, mission, and results.
- Develop and understand mission alignment and potential collaboration between MCHS and external partners.
- Draft grant proposals and supporting documents based on the application requirements of the organization.
- Properly balance multiple ongoing grant opportunities.
- Collaborate with relevant staff to gather necessary information and supporting documents for grant submissions.
- Submit proposals to Chief Development Officer (CDO) for approval.
- Respond to internal and external queries on drafted and submitted proposals.
- Maintain positive relationships with fund providers and other stakeholders.
- Maintain records and submit reports related to grant opportunities.
- Maintain up to date database of grant prospects and submission deadlines. Ensuring timely submission of all grant applications.
- Assists with database management; is capable of pulling reports to meet various queries.
- Demonstrate commitment to the social sector with a passion for MCHS’s mission and vision.
- Performs other duties as assigned by the CDO.
III. BASIC COMPETENCIES
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in English, communications, creative writing or related area. (Master’s degree preferred).
- A minimum of three years of experience in grant writing (federal, state and private foundations)
- Must meet the State’s Moral Character standard.
Knowledge Requirements:
- Computer and software applications (All MS Office).
- Principles and practices of fund development operations and management.
- Tactical planning and organizing.
- Excellent knowledge of proposal submission and fundraising process.
- Understanding of donor market, willingness to research markets outside of Michigan and nationally.
Skills and Abilities Needed:
- Ability to study and understand programs and funding requirements of the organization.
- Strong research skills and knowledge of information sources.
- Multitasking, organizational and time management skills; meet deadlines.
- Demonstrate leadership, drive, and integrity.
- Experience working in a fast paced, quick turnaround environment.
- Contribute to positive team culture at MCHS.
- Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with agency staff, volunteers, government officials, foundation, and corporate executives.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, volunteers and the public at-large.
- Handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.
- Be collaborative and flexible, with a strong service mentality.
- Possess a high degree of personal accountability, responsibility, and independent decision-making abilities with the skills to plan, organize, develop, implement, and interpret programs, goals, objectives, policies and procedures of the organization.
- Work flexible hours, when needed, which may include some evenings and weekends.
IV. JOB SETTING
The work environment described here is representative of that which an employee will typically encounter during a normal shift. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
V. Other Information
MCHS is an equal opportunity employer where employment is based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination because of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristics as established by law. This policy extends to all policies and procedures related to the recruitment and hiring, compensation, benefits, termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment.
Furthermore, this description is a summary of the responsibilities, duties, skills, experience abilities, and qualifications associated with this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may be changed at any time at the discretion of the CEO. Employment is still considered at-will in which MCHS or the employee may with or without notice, with or without reason terminate employment. MCHS reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.