Grant Writer

SUMMARY

The Grant Writer is part of a team responsible for maintaining a comprehensive grant development effort in support of the California Science Center Foundation’s educational programs, exhibits and special projects, as well as the annual fundraising programs. The ideal candidate is a prolific writer who can create accurate and engaging fundraising materials with ease and adapt copy to fit various contexts and audiences. Strong organizational skills and a keen ability to balance multiple tasks and deadlines are also required.

The Grant Writer is responsible for writing compelling grant proposals, solicitation materials, reports, letters and other communications; tracking grant deliverables and reporting requirements; identifying, researching and profiling prospective donors; and contributing to administrative and information management activities as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience preferred.
• 1-2 years experience in fundraising and/or communications; experience with nonprofit storytelling and grant writing desired.
• Strong persuasive writing and excellent editing skills; must be able to produce relevant writing samples upon request.
• Ability to synthesize information from various sources and adapt the tone, style and voice of copy to fit a range of contexts.
• Strong research and analytical skills with ability to find and evaluate funding opportunities.
• Ability to interpret budgets and financial reports and to convey information in narrative form as well as numerically.
• Highly motivated self-starter with excellent follow-through and ability to prioritize tasks to balance assigned responsibilities.
• Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail and ability to deliver high-quality work within tight time constraints.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team to produce results in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills with ability to interact effectively and diplomatically with donors, volunteers and staff across departments.
• Ability to maintain high standards for information management including tracking gift requirements, financial data, and interdepartmental and external communications.
• Proficiency in Internet research tools; knowledge of prospect research resources and best practices, for both individual donors and grant-making organizations.
• Proficiency or ability to become quickly proficient in Microsoft Office suite and OneDrive applications, Zoom or other videoconferencing platforms, donor databases or constituent relationship management systems; experience with Tessitura a plus.
• Must show discretion in handling sensitive issues and confidential information.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may include evenings and weekends (Saturday and Sunday) on occasion.

MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Writing and Research

• Prepare letters of inquiry, proposals, and narrative and financial reports; this includes liaising with colleagues in Education, Exhibit Development, Accounting and various other departments to ensure the information provided is accurate and up-to-date.
• Write a range of correspondence including personalized acknowledgement letters, Science Center updates, invitations and other communications.
• Research prospective donors and prepare profiles and briefings for staff and volunteers, reporting findings in both written form and in person.
• Write content for Science Center e-newsletters, website and social media.
• Develop and maintain a ‘story bank’ of donor profiles and constituent impact stories for various applications.
• Monitor news and current events to analyze trends and opportunities in philanthropy, identify new prospective donors, and provide relevant updates on existing donors and constituents. 

Administration

• Maintain a grant docket and other systems to track proposal and reporting schedules, keeping program/exhibit staff apprised of information needs, milestones and deadlines.
• Contribute to the maintenance of digital and non-digital files for donor/prospect information and materials.
• Contribute to tracking and coding grants contacts and actions in the donor database to assist with targeted communications and moves management.
• Assist with cultivation, solicitation and stewardship meetings, visits/tours and events as needed.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of systems and procedures for effective grant development operations.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Compensation

$26.45 - $28.85 / Hr