Grant Writer & Researcher

Position Overview:

This position contributes to the fulfillment of Open Arms’ mission by leading and managing the organizations’ existing foundation portfolio, as well as seeking and securing funding from new foundations. The Grant Writer & Researcher will research, write, and track all grants for the organization, realizing budgeted revenue. As with all OAM staff positions, this position is responsible for helping ensure volunteers and interns have an exemplary experience during all interactions with Open Arms and is expected to consistently maintain a high level of customer service to all guests, clients, and fellow team members.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Manage all foundation fundraising for the organization, from prospecting to soliciting and reporting, meeting annual budget goals and KPIs. 
• Maintain and implement comprehensive grant calendar, including cultivation and reporting. 
• Write and submit complete and high-quality foundation, corporation, and government grant applications on time. 
• Follow up with grant-making organizations during their review of a submitted grant application to supply additional supportive material if requested. 
• Assist Development Director with maintaining and nurturing relationships with foundations and other funders. 
• Identify new potential funding sources and conduct regular prospect research, keeping current on local, state, national and government opportunities. 
• Work with the Finance and Program Departments to prepare reports to foundations and other funders as required. 
• Multitask and manage several grant submissions or reports at once while working with various levels of staff to complete grant-related items. 
• Maintain a working knowledge of the Open Arms of Minnesota mission and its programs. 
• Participate in fundraising activities, staff, and department meetings. 
• Work with team to leverage annual report, newsletters, emails, website, and external tools to promote overall mission. 
• Assist other External Affairs Team members with special events, speaking opportunities and community activities when requested to do so. 
• Assist with community partner-related events involving displays, speaking opportunities and organizational representation when needed. 
• Provide support to the rest of the Development Department by helping plan and execute staff events, supporting tours, and supporting the objectives and success of the Department as a whole. 
• Provide occasional support in other operation areas including delivery of meals to clients, packaging meals in the kitchens, working at events, etc. 
• Help ensure Open Arms provides an outstanding experience for all volunteers by regularly seeking meaningful and positive interactions with them and maintaining a positive, friendly, helpful attitude always. 
• Support the mission, value, and brand of Open Arms of Minnesota. 
• Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• 4+ years of demonstrated success researching, writing, and successfully obtaining foundation and other grants. 
• 4+ years of experience working within a non-profit development department. 
• 4+ years’ experience writing reports and tracking data for grants. 
• Experience in planning and working within budgets. 
• Experience with philanthropic grants and foundation funding of non-profits. 
• Demonstrated experience managing a grant calendar. 
• Strong editing and proofreading skills, as precision in proposal language can directly impact funding success. 
• Strong organizational and project management skills. 
• Extremely detail-oriented, well-developed organizational skills and ability to handle multiple projects at the same time. 
• Proficient with grant management systems. 
• Demonstrated advanced ability in MS Office – particularly in Word and Excel, and strong internet research applications. 
• Strong ability to multi-task and work in high pressure settings. 
• Ability to think strategically, creatively, and proactively. 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively. 
• Ability to provide friendly, excellent collaborative service to internal and external constituencies. 
• Ability to create and contribute to a positive team environment. 
• Ability to work onsite at either location. 
• Valid drivers’ license and reliable transportation. 
• Ability and flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends. 
• Sensitivity and commitment to diversity and ability to work respectfully with a wide array of co-workers and members of the community. 
• A passion for the mission and values of Open Arms.