Summary of Position: The Grants Specialist is a member of the Grants and Contracts Department responsible for researching funding opportunities, writing competitive proposals, managing assigned grants, and providing departmental support to ensure timely, compliant execution of grant-funded programs.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
· Conduct comprehensive grant research to identify federal, state, private, and foundation funding opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.
· Draft, edit, and submit clear, persuasive grant proposals, budgets, and required application materials.
· Oversee assigned grants from award through closeout; maintain detailed knowledge of terms, budgets, deliverables, and timelines.
· Prepare and submit programmatic and financial grant reports in accordance with contract/grantor requirements and deadlines.
· Maintain organized, up-to-date grant files and records in shared repositories and the Grants Department’s tracking system.
· Coordinate processing of grant documents (awards, modifications, amendments, extensions, closeouts) with Program Managers, Department Directors, Tribal Administrator, and Tribal Legal Department.
· Obtain formal approval from Tribal leadership before initiating or pursuing new grant opportunities to ensure alignment with strategic priorities.
· Monitor and respond promptly to grant-related correspondence and communications with grantors and stakeholders.
· Collaborate with PIIC staff (as applicable) and program teams to ensure deliverables, compliance, and reporting requirements are met.
· Provide Program Directors and relevant leadership with regular financial updates, grant status reports, and budget reconciliations.
· Coordinate and support grant-related site visits, desk reviews, and audits; prepare documentation and ensure compliance.
· Develop and maintain proficiency in grants management software and databases; ensure accurate data entry and tracking.
· Assist the Grants Department Manager with special projects and other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, English, or a related field; OR a minimum of three (3) years of professional grant management experience in lieu of a degree.
· Demonstrated experience in grant writing, grant administration, or related professional grant management.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience producing budgets, spreadsheets, reports, and correspondence.
· Strong verbal and written communication, organization, and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications:
· Proven experience in writing award winning proposals.
· Tribal government grant management or grant writing experience.
· Grant management certification from a recognized professional association (e.g. CGMS from NGMA).
Performance Expectations:
· Ability to work collaboratively and effectively as part of a team.
· Ability to work independently and manage tasks with minimal supervision.
· Strong project management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
· Accurate and timely completion of assigned work.
· Effective time management and prioritization of tasks.
· Demonstration of sound professional judgment.
· Adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and protocols.
· Consistent demonstration of confidentiality and discretion.
· Regular and reliable attendance.
Working Conditions:
This position is primarily performed in a general office setting. The successful candidate must be able to work at a computer for extended periods and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.