Grant Specialist

The Grant Specialist is a key member of the Administrative Team at Youth Services System, responsible for working closely with the CEO and CFO to forecast agency programmatic and capital needs that align with our strategic plan and state/national trends and best practices. This role involves performing state and federal grant research, writing, and ensuring proper submission of grant applications by established deadlines. The Grant Specialist will work collaboratively with Directors and Managers to ensure YSS is implementing grants as approved in accordance with contract and Statement of Work.

• Develop effective state and federal grant proposals, monitor deadlines, and present reports based on organizational needs.
• Persuasively communicate the organization's mission and programs to potential funders and stakeholders.
• Understand the organization's needs and perform relevant research for new grant opportunities, evaluating the results.
• Develop core grant writing components to support grant writing applications and submissions.
• Submit grant requests, including letters, proposals, budgets, and presentations.
• Ensure grants are implemented in accordance with agency policies, licensing regulations, operational, and financial needs of the organization.
• Identify and develop strategies to optimize the grant administration process.
• Work with the Director of Development to ensure acknowledgment of funders/investors via website, e-newsletter, and social media.
• Prepare budget plans and allocations with the finance department in accordance with grant requirements.
• Assist the Finance Department with the preparation and submission of reports to maintain grant compliance.
• Analyze budget trends and make recommendations for budget adjustments.
• Monitor and maintain funder reporting schedules and requirements.
• Work collaboratively with Directors and Managers to ensure proper documentation for reporting as required by grantee timelines.
• Develop materials and systems for informing the CEO/CFO of funding opportunities.
• In-depth understanding of the organization's programs/services, policies, and procedures.

• Knowledge of state and federal grant resources.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent time management/organization skills.
• Detail-oriented and thorough.
• Excellent written and communication skills.
• Knowledge of local and statewide social service systems.
• Knowledge of best practices in behavioral health and childcare.
• Proactively addresses programmatic and financial needs of the organization.
• Ability to understand needs of the agency applying for funds as well as the agency providing the funds.
• Ability to manage key projects concurrently.
• Demonstrate ability to work independently and carry out assignments to completion within parameters.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences through documents and presentations.
• Strong technological/computer skills (must be comfortable working with Microsoft Office 365).
• Ability to be a team player and work with diverse populations.

Requires a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a Human Service field, Education, Communication, or Journalism, with 5+ years of proven experience in state and federal grant research, writing, reporting, and administration.

Must have a valid driver's license and auto insurance as required by law.