Sponsored Programs Coordinator at Shawnee Community College (IL) – Illinois

The Coordinator of Sponsored Programs oversees the College’s grant portfolio by coordinating proposals, ensuring compliance, and streamlining reporting processes to support academic and project leaders. This role works collaboratively with Deans, Directors, and the Foundation to align grant initiatives with the College’s strategic priorities. In addition to supporting current projects, the coordinator seeks strategic funding opportunities to expand resources and advance the College’s future priorities.

The essential duties and primary responsibilities below are intended to describe the general requirements of this job and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Grant Management & Compliance

• Serve as the central point of contact for active grants and funded projects.
• Partner with Deans, Directors, and project leads to track deliverables and ensure accountability.
• Provide training and guidance on grant-related procedures, submission processes, and reporting requirements.
• Maintain compliance with funder, federal, state, and institutional guidelines.

2. Financial Oversight

• Collaborate with the Business Office’s grants accountant to monitor budgets and expenditures.
• Ensure documentation and authorization of all grant-related transactions.
• Maintain reporting calendars and coordinate timely submission of financial and program reports.
• Serve as liaison with funding entities regarding financial and compliance requirements.

3. Strategic Development

• Research and identify competitive, high-value funding opportunities that align with SCC priorities.
• Prepare and coordinate proposals, narratives, budgets, and supporting documentation.
• Build and maintain relationships with external partners and agencies to strengthen funding proposals.
• Support long-term institutional priorities such as infrastructure and program expansion.

4. Institutional Advancement

• Ensure grant activities align with the College’s strategic plan and Facility Master Plan.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director of the Saints Foundation on shared funding strategies.
• Develop and implement standardized grant management processes, dashboards, and tracking systems.
• Represent the College on committees and in institutional planning initiatives.

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business, Finance, Communications, Education, or a closely related field required
• Minimum of three years of experience in grant writing, compliance, or grant management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects with attention to detail.
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with database or tracking systems preferred.

• Knowledge of federal, state, and private funding regulations.
• Ability to manage multiple grants and deadlines simultaneously.
• Skill in cultivating collaborative relationships.
• Strong analytical skills for dashboards and funder reports.
• Ability to draft compelling proposals and present information clearly.