Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Communities In Schools National Office is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to educational equity. They are seeking a Senior Grant Writer responsible for identifying, writing, submitting, and managing grant proposals to support their mission and long-term sustainability.
Responsibilities
- Draft compelling Letters of Inquiry (LOIs), concept notes, and full proposals that clearly articulate CIS’s mission, impact, and financial sustainability
- Customize proposals to align with each funder’s priorities while emphasizing the importance of flexible, unrestricted support
- Develop strong cases for both general operating and restricted funding
- Ensure all submissions are accurate, compliant, persuasive, and delivered on time
- Lead complex, cross-functional proposal processes independently
- Research and identify institutional funders that prioritize or are open to general operating support
- Maintain a 12–18 month grants calendar tracking deadlines, renewals, and reporting requirements
- Partner with Advancement leadership to prioritize opportunities based on mission alignment, funding potential, and long-term sustainability
- Balance a portfolio emphasizing unrestricted revenue while strategically pursuing restricted funding opportunities
- Collaborate with leadership and internal team members to gather pertinent data, financial documentation, and impact stories
- Develop and present compelling financial narratives demonstrating fiscal health and responsible stewardship
- Support the Advancement Engagement team and other internal colleagues by helping to draft targeted program updates for newsletters, social media, and other communications
- Translate complex programmatic and financial information into accessible, funder-centered messaging
- Collaborate with the Advancement team to ensure 100% on-time reporting and compliance with funder requirements
- Prepare high-quality interim and final reports demonstrating measurable impact and effective use of funds
- Maintain organized digital grant files and accurate CRM records (Salesforce experience preferred)
Skills
- Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent years of experience) in English, Communications, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, or a related field
- 6–8 years of progressively responsible experience in grant writing, institutional fundraising, foundation relations, or a related field, such as Corporate Social Responsibility
- Demonstrated track record of securing successful grant awards, particularly unrestricted general operating support at the six-figure level and above
- Experience working within nonprofits, foundations, associations, or preferably—federated/network-based organizations, with a focus on K–12 education and/or economic mobility
- Proven ability to write clear, compelling, and persuasive content for various audiences
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Strong research and data analysis skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy
- A self-starter who can work independently and take initiative to solve problems
- Deep knowledge of the full grant lifecycle, including research, proposal writing, and reporting
- Advanced proficiency with MS 360 and familiarity with donor management software (e.g., Salesforce) and prospect research tools (e.g., Foundation Directory, Wealth Engine, LinkedIn Sales Navigator)
- Proven ability to handle confidential information with the highest level of integrity
- Able to build positive relationships with your colleagues and willing to help others
- Excited to work with people who have different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives from your own
- Passionate about advancing education equity and supporting students to stay in school and achieve in life
Benefits
- Five weeks of Paid Time Off
- Generous s403b Retirement Savings Plan contribution
- 10 Paid Holidays
- 90% of employee health care premiums paid by the organization
- Summer Work Schedule and Winter Break*
- Employer-paid short-term and long-term income replacement programs, and much, much more!
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