Grant Writer at Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky

Job Description:

TITLE: Grant Writer DEPARTMENT: Grants and Sponsored Programs REPORTS TO: Director, Grants and Sponsored Programs CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time  EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt   JOB SUMMARY:    The Grant Writer will play a pivotal role in securing funding to support the university's research initiatives, academic programs, and community projects. This position involves identifying potential funding sources, developing proposals, and coordinating with faculty and staff to ensure successful grant submissions. The Grant Writer will work closely with the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs to advance the university's mission and strategic goals through effective grant acquisition.   SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY: The Grant Writer is responsible for identifying funding opportunities, developing and submitting high-quality grant proposals, and ensuring compliance with funding agency requirements. This role involves collaborating with faculty, researchers, and administrative staff to gather necessary information, create compelling narratives, and construct detailed budgets. The Grant Writer manages the entire grant lifecycle, from prospect research and proposal writing to post-award reporting and compliance. Additionally, they provide guidance and training to university personnel on grant processes and maintain accurate records of all grant activities. Their efforts directly support the university's mission by securing vital funding for research, academic programs, and community initiatives.   ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  Research and Identification:Conduct comprehensive research to identify potential funding opportunities from federal, state, and private sources.Maintain a database of grant prospects and submission deadlines.Stay updated on current trends in funding priorities and grant-making organizations.Pre-Award Activities:Concept Development: Work closely with program staff to conceptualize and develop project ideas that align with funding opportunities.Gathering Data and Evidence: Collect and compile relevant data, statistics, and research to support the need for the project and to strengthen the proposal.Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with potential partners, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders to gather input and secure commitments for collaboration and support.Preparation of Compliance Documents: Prepare and ensure all required pre-application documents are complete, such as eligibility statements, letters of intent, and other certifications.Detailed Project Planning: Develop detailed project plans, including objectives, outcomes, timelines, and staffing needs, to provide a clear and comprehensive proposal framework.Risk Assessment: Identify and analyze potential risks associated with the proposed project and develop mitigation strategies to address these risks in the proposal.Proposal Development:Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and administrators to develop compelling grant proposals.Write, edit, and proofread grant applications to ensure clarity, accuracy, and alignment with funding requirements.Assist in the development of project budgets and ensure compliance with university and funder guidelines.Coordination and Communication:Serve as the primary contact for grant-related inquiries and communications.Facilitate meetings and workshops to assist faculty and staff in understanding the grant application process.Work with the university’s finance and legal departments to ensure proper grant management and compliance.Grant Management:Monitor the status of submitted proposals and follow up as necessary.Assist in the post-award process, including reporting, budget tracking, and compliance.Maintain detailed records of grant activities and outcomes.Professional Development:Attend relevant workshops, seminars, and conferences to enhance skills and knowledge.Stay informed about changes in grant regulations and policies..  OTHER DUTIES: The position will conduct other duties as needed.   QUALIFICATIONS:  Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in English, Communications, Public Administration, or a related field.Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in grant writing, preferably in an academic or research setting. Preferred Qualifications: Experience in developing proposals for federal agencies (e.g., USDA, NIFA, NSF, NIH, DOE).Knowledge of university administrative processes and procedures.Demonstrated success in securing significant grant funding.  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:             Knowledge: Grant Writing Techniques:Comprehensive understanding of grant writing processes and best practices.Familiarity with different types of grants (federal, state, private, foundation) and funding mechanisms.Research Funding Sources:Knowledge of various funding agencies, their priorities, and guidelines.Awareness of current trends in research funding and higher education funding priorities.Regulations and Compliance:Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional regulations regarding grant applications and management.Understanding of compliance requirements for post-award management, including financial and progress reporting.Budget Development:Understanding of principles and practices in budget preparation and financial management for grants.Ability to align project goals with budgetary constraints and funder requirements.Skills: Writing and Communication:Exceptional writing skills with the ability to produce clear, compelling, and persuasive grant proposals.Strong editing and proofreading skills to ensure accuracy and coherence.Research and Analytical:Strong research skills to identify potential funding sources and gather relevant data for proposals.Analytical skills to interpret funding guidelines, eligibility requirements, and funding priorities.Project Management:Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines.Strong organizational skills to keep track of application deadlines, submission processes, and follow-up activities.Interpersonal and Collaborative:Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with faculty, staff, and external partners.Ability to facilitate collaboration among diverse teams and stakeholders.Technical Proficiency:Proficiency in using grant management software and databases.Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software tools.Abilities: Attention to Detail:High level of attention to detail to ensure that all aspects of the grant proposal meet the funder’s requirements.Ability to review and revise proposals for completeness and accuracy.Critical Thinking:Ability to think critically and strategically to develop innovative approaches to securing funding.Problem-solving skills to address potential challenges in the grant writing and management process.Adaptability:Ability to adapt to changing funding landscapes and priorities.Flexibility to work on diverse projects and with various stakeholders across the university.Initiative and Self-Motivation:Strong initiative and self-motivation to seek out funding opportunities and drive the grant development process.Ability to work independently while also contributing to team efforts.Effective Communication:Ability to clearly articulate the goals and needs of the university’s projects to potential funders.Skill in presenting complex information in a way that is accessible to a non-specialist audience. By possessing and developing these knowledge areas, skills, and abilities, a University Grant Writer can significantly contribute to the success of the university’s research and programmatic initiatives.   SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:  This position does not have supervisory responsibility.   Licensing & Certifications: NA   WORKING CONDITIONS:  Work is normally performed in either a typical interior/office work environment or at off-campus events featuring Kentucky State University. Frequent use of a computer keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipmentOccasional travel may be required to attend workshops, seminars, or meetings.  KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.