Grant Specialist at Candelen – Phoenix, Arizona

The Grant Specialist plays a critical role in supporting all of Candelen by securing public and private funding to sustain and expand its programs. This position helps identify and address both immediate and long-term funding needs across the organization. The Grant Specialist is responsible for researching and writing successful grant proposals, ensuring alignment with Candelen's mission and strategic goals. This role collaborates closely with executive leadership, program teams, and operations staff, overseeing the full grant development process, including writing, editing, reviewing, and preparing proposals for submission.

• Identify and research competitive funding opportunities to meet the organization's immediate and long-term needs, including renewal grants.
• Work closely with program leaders to understand and clearly communicate program details in grant proposals.
• Engage respectfully and effectively with diverse staff, stakeholders, and the communities Candelen serves.

Grant Lifecycle Management

• Develop comprehensive profiles of potential public and private funders, including background, leadership, financial capacity, historical giving, affiliation to Candelen employees, and funding priorities.
• Maintain and oversee a grants calendar to track key deadlines, pre-application activities, cultivation activities, and submission timelines.
• Ensure accurate tracking and documentation of grants.
• Manage projects efficiently, balancing multiple deadlines while working with diverse and remote teams.
• Stay informed about Candelen's programs to effectively communicate complex concepts in clear and persuasive grant proposals.
• Lead the full proposal development process, from funder research and project planning to writing and submission.

Knowledge

• Understanding of grant writing best practices and funding research methods.
• Knowledge of public and private funding landscapes.
• Familiarity with proposal development processes, including funder identification, research, and submission.
• Familiarity with grant databases and grant research tools.

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and comfort with technology.
• Project management expertise, particularly in deadline-driven environments.

Abilities

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and compete priorities effectively.

Required Education and Competencies

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, marketing, journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in grant writing or a related field.
• Ability to meet background check requirements upon initial hire and for the duration of employment.
• Must obtain and maintain an Arizona Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.

Selective Preference

• 5 years of experience in grant writing or a related field.
• Proven success in securing both public and private funding.
• Experience with Salesforce and Asana.
• Experience in nonprofit fundraising preferred.