Grant Writer (Sr Specialist), Advancement

Communities in Schools Inc • Arlington, VA

24d

About The Position

Are you passionate about educational equity and skilled at turning impact into investment?
The CIS National Office is seeking an experienced Grant Writer who will be responsible for identifying, writing, submitting, and managing grant proposals to private foundations, corporate foundations, and, where applicable, public sources. The primary focus of this position is securing general operating support, directed, and restricted revenue to support CIS’s overall mission and long-term sustainability, while also managing the proposal process for restricted project grants that deepen and expand programmatic impact.

This is an individual contributor role designed for a professional who has direct experience in the K-12 and/or economic mobility sectors. This person must operate independently, manage complex submissions, and collaborate cross-functionally and effectively with leadership, staff, and internal and external stakeholders. Reporting, on an interim basis, to the Sr Director of Institutional Giving, this role plays a central part in strengthening CIS’s institutional funding strategy and advancing its equity-driven mission.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent years of experience) in English, Communications, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, or a related field.
• 6–8 years of progressively responsible experience in grant writing, institutional fundraising, foundation relations, or a related field, such as Corporate Social Responsibility.
• Demonstrated track record of securing successful grant awards, particularly unrestricted general operating support at the six-figure level and above.
• Experience working within nonprofits, foundations, associations, or preferably—federated/network-based organizations, with a focus on K–12 education and/or economic mobility.
• Proven ability to write clear, compelling, and persuasive content for various audiences.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong research and data analysis skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• A self-starter who can work independently and take initiative to solve problems.
• Deep knowledge of the full grant lifecycle, including research, proposal writing, and reporting.
• Advanced proficiency with MS 360 and familiarity with donor management software (e.g., Salesforce) and prospect research tools (e.g., Foundation Directory, Wealth Engine, LinkedIn Sales Navigator).
• Proven ability to handle confidential information with the highest level of integrity.
• Able to build positive relationships with your colleagues and willing to help others.
• Excited to work with people who have different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives from your own.
• Passionate about advancing education equity and supporting students to stay in school and achieve in life.

Responsibilities

• Draft compelling Letters of Inquiry (LOIs), concept notes, and full proposals that clearly articulate CIS’s mission, impact, and financial sustainability.
• Customize proposals to align with each funder’s priorities while emphasizing the importance of flexible, unrestricted support.
• Develop strong cases for both general operating and restricted funding.
• Ensure all submissions are accurate, compliant, persuasive, and delivered on time.
• Lead complex, cross-functional proposal processes independently.
• Research and identify institutional funders that prioritize or are open to general operating support.
• Maintain a 12–18 month grants calendar tracking deadlines, renewals, and reporting requirements.
• Partner with Advancement leadership to prioritize opportunities based on mission alignment, funding potential, and long-term sustainability.
• Balance a portfolio emphasizing unrestricted revenue while strategically pursuing restricted funding opportunities.
• Collaborate with leadership and internal team members to gather pertinent data, financial documentation, and impact stories.
• Develop and present compelling financial narratives demonstrating fiscal health and responsible stewardship.
• Support the Advancement Engagement team and other internal colleagues by helping to draft targeted program updates for newsletters, social media, and other communications.
• Translate complex programmatic and financial information into accessible, funder-centered messaging.
• Collaborate with the Advancement team to ensure 100% on-time reporting and compliance with funder requirements.
• Prepare high-quality interim and final reports demonstrating measurable impact and effective use of funds.
• Maintain organized digital grant files and accurate CRM records (Salesforce experience preferred).

Benefits

• Five weeks of Paid Time Off
• Generous s403b Retirement Savings Plan contribution
• 10 Paid Holidays
• 90% of employee health care premiums paid by the organization
• Summer Work Schedule and Winter Break
• Employer-paid short-term and long-term income replacement programs, and much, much more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees