Department: Resource Development

Reports to: Chief Development Officer

Job Summary

On behalf of Independent Sector, the Grant Writer prepares and submits applications and proposals for major grants. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, and working collaboratively with Nonprofit and Philanthropic Leadership and Practice (NPLP), Public Policy, Membership and Communications, determines grant availability for existing projects and programs that cannot be sustained within IS’s existing operating budget. Monitors grants received to ensure that guidelines and restrictions are followed. Develops responses to requests for proposals and letters of intent on grants and funding that are consistent with IS’s values and objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works collaboratively with the Chief Development Officer, Development Director and Communications, Policy and Program staff in writing, researching and preparing grant proposals.
• Researches prospects for foundation and corporate grants.
• Drafts proposals for review and approval by the CDO and the CEO and President
• Writes grant proposals and constructs program budgets according to detailed requirements and guidelines.
  
• Assists in the development of concept papers, program overviews, and other needs.
  
• Working with the Resource Development team, maintains database to track and report on prospects, proposals in the pipeline, and pending proposals.
  
• After submitting a grant proposal, keeps in contact with each grant-making organization to check on the progress. 
• Submits progress reports to any grant-making organization that has funded a program.

Ideal Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications or English or equivalent and 6 – 8 years or more of job related experience. Advanced degree may be preferable.
  
• Demonstrated outstanding writing skills, including attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines when composing reports and proofreading materials.
• Expertise in foundations, corporate relations, and/or grantsmanship.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully and accurately complete assigned projects within necessary timeframes. Ability to meet all deadlines.
• Proven ability to cultivate relationships with foundations and corporations.
• Ability to understand and analyze complex organizational programmatic and/or policy matters and translate into compelling proposals.
  
• Superior oral communications skills.
• Ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and prioritize demands while contributing toward progress on issues impacting the nonprofit community.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, including excellent customer-orientation, and an ability to deal professionally with individuals at all levels, both internally and externally.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.

Personal Characteristics

• Strongly committed to the mission and vision of IS; able to serve as a compelling ambassador for the organization.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
• Must be very articulate and able to communicate clearly verbally and in writing to IS members and other relevant parties the substance of IS policy positions and programs.
• A self-starter who thrives in a rapidly changing environment and excels at working with a diverse team of colleagues and members.
  
• Able to juggle multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a demanding fast moving work environment;
• Articulate, polished and sophisticated individual who presents well and can interact comfortably with high-level individuals and groups;
  
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• A proven ability to work collaboratively and thoughtfully as part of a committed, integrated team.
  
• Well-organized with exceptional attention to detail, but adaptable and flexible enough to meet evolving priorities.
• Possess professional maturity, credibility, patience, good judgment, honesty, integrity and trust; able to motivate others in a similar vein.
• Able to solve problems, work independently, and excel in a high performance culture. 
• Able to travel as necessary.
  

Independent Sector is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

To Apply
Submit cover letter, resume, salary history, and writing sample:
Human Resources (Grant Writer)
Independent Sector
1602 L Street NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20036
Fax 202-467-6101
resumes@independentsector.org

Independent Sector is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.