Grant Writer and Government Affairs Coordinator

City of Odessa•Odessa, TX

About The Position

The Grant Writer & Government Affairs Coordinator serves as the City of Odessa's central resource for identifying, securing, and managing grant funding while also leading government relations and legislative efforts. This role acts as a liaison between the City and state and federal entities, tracks legislation, supports policy development, and oversees the full lifecycle of grant administration while monitoring and analyzing public policy impacts to municipal operations. The position works collaboratively with City leadership, City departments, Finance, and external stakeholders to advance strategic priorities, secure funding opportunities, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business, Finance, Communications, Political Science, or related field
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in grant writing, grant administration, government affairs, or related work
Knowledge of grant funding sources and regulatory compliance (federal, state, and local)
Understanding of legislative processes and public policy analysis
Strong technical writing, research, and analytical skills
Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously
Knowledge of budgeting, financial tracking, and grant accounting principles
Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills
Ability to communicate effectively with leadership, officials, and external partners
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and standard business systems
Ability to operate standard office equipment and perform sedentary work

Nice To Haves

Municipal or government experience preferred

Responsibilities

Research, identify, and evaluate federal, state, regional, and private grant opportunities aligned with City priorities
Write, prepare, and submit high-quality grant applications, proposals, and supporting documentation
Coordinate citywide grant development efforts with departments and leadership
Develop and maintain a centralized grant tracking system (deadlines, awards, compliance requirements)
Oversee post-award administration, including reporting, reimbursements, compliance, and closeout
Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local regulations, including audit and financial requirements
Collaborate with Finance to monitor grant budgets, allowable costs, and expenditures
Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, regional partners, and community stakeholders
Coordinate with departments to identify funding needs and align projects with grant opportunities
Represent the City in meetings, workshops, and public forums as needed
Support interdepartmental collaboration on strategic initiatives and special projects
Prepare reports, presentations, and briefings for executive leadership and City Council
Develop policies, procedures, and best practices for grant and compliance management
Provide training and technical assistance to City staff on grant processes and requirements
Support long-term strategic planning through funding analysis and policy insight
Acts as the liaison between the City and state/federal governments, tracking legislation, and managing policy development
Monitors bills and advises city leadership on legislative impacts, monitors federal and state legislation, and prepares detailed summaries and reports on impact.
Assist in creating, revising, and implementing the City's legislative agenda.
Identifies and tracks grant opportunities and funding opportunities for local initiatives related to the legislative agenda.