Grants Specialist

SUSTAINABLE OHIO PUBLIC ENERGY COUNCIL 

Position Title: Grants Specialist - 1 of 2.

Classification: Full-time.

Position Summary: The Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council (“SOPEC”) seeks candidates for the position of Grants Specialist. The Grants Specialist is responsible for assisting in identifying and taking the steps necessary to apply for private and public grants on behalf of SOPEC. The Grants Specialist will also serve as support staff for SOPEC members’ grants applications. The Grants Specialist will assist in managing grants application processes in conjunction with the Director of Grants and Development, as well as with other members of the SOPEC team. The Grants Specialist utilizes the expertise of SOPEC staff and community network for technical support. SOPEC was established in 2014 and serves member communities and political subdivisions across Ohio. The position will assist in continued development of, and growth and service to, SOPEC member communities and political subdivisions. SOPEC has a strong commitment to sustainability and the advancement of the renewable energy economy. SOPEC is governed by the members it serves. 

Job Description: Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Researches and identifies new government, corporate, foundations, and private funding prospects;
• Generates proposals and supporting documents in response to solicitations;
• Generates revenues for SOPEC’s programs and services through timely submission of research, written and documented grant/fund-raising proposals;
• Develops, maintains, and implements calendar for research, LOI, applications and stewardship;
• Coordinates and follows up on the progress of submitted proposals;
• Writes reports to government, corporate, foundations, and other funders;
• Assists with development of an annual grant strategy;
• Identifies funding opportunities and new program areas to match SOPEC’s priorities, using research tools;
• Serves as a liaison to funding agencies or organizations (as needed);
• Engages with program officers at organizations to solicit invitations to submit proposals; and
• Special projects as needed.
• Supports the Director of Grants and Development and Grants Manager as needed.

Education and Experience/Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited educational institution in public administration, business administration, human resources management, sustainability, political science, sociology, history, economics, or another relevant field. Relevant experience in conjunction with a degree in a non-related field will also be considered;
• Ideal candidate must have over 2 years of experience in grant writing or grant management experience;
• Candidate must live in, or near, or be willing to travel  to Ohio on occasion;
• Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and vehicle to travel throughout Ohio and occasionally surrounding states as required; and
• Strong familiarity with solar, renewable technologies, energy efficiency, and electric vehicles is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Candidate must have a commitment to a sustainable and equitable energy future for the region;
• Ability to analyze complex data and determine key metrics;
• Passion for serving underserved communities;

• Ability to meet deadlines with quality products;
• Willingness to work collaboratively in a team environment;
• Ability to serve as a public servant;
• Attention to detail;
• Professional and proactive work ethic;
• High competence in project and stakeholder management;
• Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills;
• Competency in Microsoft, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, and Google applications; and
• Some travel is occasionally required, with mileage reimbursed by SOPEC.

Responsibility: The Grants Specialist reports to the Director of Grants and Development. Highly responsible position with some independence requiring judgment and sensitivity to the organization and public relations. 

Personal Work Relationships: The Grants Specialist will have daily contact with co-workers in the organization, elected and appointed officials, members of the news media, and the general public. The purpose of these contacts is to provide helpful information about the activities of the organization and to promote strong public relations for the organization. 

Working Conditions: Work is performed in a normal office setting and/or remotely. Work is also sometimes performed at local government meetings across Ohio, and some occasional driving and travel time may be required. 

Compensation: This position is full-time and benefits eligible, including required contribution by employee and employer to the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS). A background check will be required. Please submit your resume and cover letter to: HR@sopec-oh.gov. For full consideration, candidates should apply by May 24, 2024.