Grants Manager

RAY GRAHAM ASSOCIATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES • Lisle, IL

3d

About The Position

Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities (RGA) is seeking a mission-driven Grants Manager to lead identification, development, and stewardship of grant opportunities that support its mission of empowering people with disabilities to reach, grow, and achieve. As a member of the Development team, the Grants Manager partners across the organization to secure funding for programs, services, and organizational growth.

The role leads the pursuit, acquisition, and management of grant funding. It develops evidence-based proposals, maintains funder relationships, oversees reporting and compliance, and works with program and finance teams to ensure funded initiatives achieve measurable outcomes. The Grants Manager also supports broader fundraising and public-awareness efforts.

The schedule is generally daytime office hours, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend availability as needed. Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 2–5 years of related professional experience.
• Excellent written, editing, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and a collaborative approach.
• Ability to read and understand written information.
• Reliable transportation and ability to drive during work hours.

Nice To Haves

• Five or more years of grant writing, grant management, fundraising, nonprofit development, or related experience.
• Master’s degree.
• Demonstrated success securing grants from foundations, government agencies, and community partners.
• Experience managing grant compliance, reporting, and outcome measurement.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue grant opportunities aligned with RGA’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Maintain a pipeline of current and future funding opportunities across the organization.
• Lead the development, writing, editing, and submission of persuasive, evidence-based grant proposals and applications.
• Evaluate funding opportunities based on organizational impact, budget relief, innovation potential, and long-term value.
• Assess existing grants and funding opportunities to maximize return on investment.
• Develop and review grant budgets in partnership with Development leadership and the Finance Department.
• Maintain and oversee grant calendars and reporting deadlines.
• Monitor post-award activities for programmatic and financial compliance with funder requirements.
• Coordinate grant reporting and communications to ensure accountability and successful stewardship of grant funds.
• Partner with program staff to design projects, establish measurable objectives, and define outcome metrics.
• Collaborate with organizational leaders and staff to gather information for proposals and reports.
• Work with development team members on grant prospecting and organizational fundraising efforts.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and liaison for grant funders.
• Cultivate relationships with foundations, government agencies, municipalities, and other funding partners.
• Conduct presentations to increase awareness of RGA’s mission and funding needs.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders and community partners.
• Support broader fundraising and public-awareness efforts on behalf of RGA.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Paid vacation time
• Paid sick time
• Paid personal time off
• Paid holidays
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level