Grants Specialist

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.