Grants Specialist

The Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network (SSJNN) seeks a dedicated and meticulous Grants Specialist to lead and expand our grant funding efforts. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Grants Specialist will be responsible for identifying funding opportunities, writing grant proposals and reports, and maintaining grant contract compliance.

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a resume and provide a sample of a grant proposal they have written, ideally one that was submitted and/or funded.

Who You Are:

The applicant must be a skilled writer, researcher, and relationship builder. The ideal candidate will be a high-performing problem solver with an aptitude for time and budget management. Must be able to organize and discern work priorities, meet deadlines with little supervision and be flexible enough to shift priorities as new grant opportunities arise.

This position will work closely with fundraising, accounting and program staff and should enjoy working in a fast-paced, evolving environment, and demonstrate the ability to embrace SSJNN’s mission to empower richly diverse and historically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

What You’ll Do:

• Work with the Executive Director and program staff to align grant applications with organizational needs and priorities.
• Write and serve as the primary grant writer for all grants and proposals produced by SSJNN
• Research and identify new funding prospects.
• Maintain current foundation and grant compliance information, including contacts, proposal details, foundation summaries and upcoming deadlines.
• Maintain a comprehensive grant calendar, tracking application and reporting deadlines.
• Track, report, and prepare spreadsheets to follow all pending, approved, and closed grants.
• Work with accounting staff and program staff to develop project budgets for grant requests.
• Coordinate annual reporting for projects and grants with strict deadlines.
• Work with SSJNN accounting, fundraising, and program staff to ensure that all grant awards are credited appropriately within SSJNN’s accounting systems and used according to donor guidelines.
• Work collaboratively with SSJNN advancement team to secure publicity for funders.
• Collect client stories for use in grant proposals, publications, and acknowledgements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in writing-intensive major such as English, journalism, communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in grant writing, nonprofit fundraising, or a related field; 3-5 years preferred.
• Proven track record of successfully securing grants and managing grant compliance.
• Strong writing, researching, and communication skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, grant database, and donor management software (CRM experience preferred).

Benefits

• Make a difference - the work you do measurably improves the daily lives of neighbors.
• Work environment - We genuinely care about your well-being.
• We offer comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• 401k with match.
• SSJNN is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.

Company Overview

Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania in 2000, the SSJ Neighborhood Network provides leadership, advocates for local residents and partners with the broader community to develop opportunities for both personal growth and neighborhood revitalization.

SSJNN provides a comprehensive response to neighborhood need following these 5 goals and priorities, with one-on-one, neighbor engagement being the thread woven throughout: 1. Improving Physical Image, 2. Crime Prevention and Safety, 3. Economic Development, 4. Affordable Housing, 5. Neighborhood Conservation and Community Engagement.

As an employer, the SSJNN values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Erie, check out our  website www.ssjnn.org or social media feeds: www.facebook.com/ssjnn, www.instagram/ssj.nn

Additional Information

SSJNN does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All employees are responsible for maintaining a work culture free from discrimination and harassment by treating others with kindness and respect.