Grant Writer

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chicago School seeks a skilled and motivated Grant Writer to support and enhance the institution’s capacity for competitive, mission-aligned grant submissions. This role is pivotal in helping The Chicago School secure funding for institutional initiatives, research, and cross-campus partnerships that advance our national impact. Reporting to the Director of the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP), the Grant Writer will develop proposals for government, foundation, and private funding; manage grant lifecycles; and collaborate closely with faculty, leadership, and cross-functional teams. The Grant Writer will help streamline internal processes by developing templates, calendars, and submission supports. This is a full-time remote position. Preferred working hours include overlap with Central and Eastern Time zones and flexibility to accommodate Pacific-based colleagues. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on proposal deadlines.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Proposal Development and Strategy

Lead the development of high-quality, competitive grant proposals aligned with institutional priorities

Research and interpret funding opportunities and articulate compelling institutional narratives

Collaborate with faculty, staff, and leadership to collect data, gather supporting materials, and shape content

Translate complex institutional goals into clear, persuasive grant language

Lifecycle and Compliance Management

Oversee timelines and submission logistics for proposals across federal, foundation, and corporate funders

Interpret and disseminate funding notices to internal stakeholders in accessible formats

Manage compliance and coordinate with OSP, Legal, and Finance as needed

Capacity Building and Tools

Develop and maintain templates, calendars, and checklists to support proposal development

Build and disseminate internal resources for faculty and staff pursuing grants

Offer individual guidance and project management support to prospective applicants

Institutional Collaboration

Work with departments and campuses nationwide to align proposals with college-wide goals

Serve as a liaison between funders and The Chicago School, representing institutional values and priorities

Participate in planning conversations to align grant strategy with campus needs and leadership goals

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in English, Communications, or a related field

Minimum of 7 years of grant writing experience, preferably in higher education or research settings

Demonstrated experience managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and electronic submission platforms (e.g., Grants.gov, ERA systems)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree in Psychology or related field

Prior experience in an Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP)

Familiarity with federal agencies and foundations that support academic institutions

Experience securing grant funding and managing the full proposal lifecycle

Strong attention to detail, independent judgment, and ability to thrive in a fast-

Compensation & Benefits

This opportunity is budgeted at $$80,000 to $90,000 base compensation. Additional compensation factors may impact total compensation. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.

https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/career-opportunities/

The Chicago School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please note: For the protection of faculty, staff, students, and all who enter our facilities, The Chicago School strongly recommends that all employees are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 per CDC guidance.