Grant Development Specialist

SmithGroup is an award-winning, integrated design firm that blends research, data and technology with innovation and a creative spirit to deliver resilient, inclusive spaces that solve our clients' greatest challenges. Our teams create exceptional design solutions for healthcare, science and technology, workplace, mixed use, higher education, cultural, waterfront, parks and open spaces, and urban environments. We are looking for passionate problem solvers who want to elevate design, push boundaries and move us closer to a carbon-free future. Care to join us?

The Chicagooffice of SmithGroupis looking for aGrant Development Specialistto join our team.

Working with us you will:

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  Work with project teams across SmithGroup's diverse disciplines, offices, and markets to position the firm to successfully pursue grant opportunities.

  
  

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  Collaborate as an integral member of the Research Operations team to develop a long-term grants strategy.

  
  

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  Collaborate on the design and development of a grant tracking tool to inform workflows and decision making for pursuing grant opportunities.

  
  

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  Conduct systematic research to identify and understand new funding opportunities across foundations, government agencies, and other funding entities.

  
  

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  Work closely with proposal teams to communicate and coordinate a strategic and effective submission process, from initial drafts to final submission.

  
  

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  Establish and maintain strong working relationships, acting as a liaison between funding agencies and project teams.

  
  

An ideal candidate has:

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  Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Marketing, Communications, English, Journalism or related field. Master's degree preferred.

  
  

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  Minimum of 5 years of professional or academic experience in grant writing.

  
  

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  Proven track record of successful grant pursuits.

  
  

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  Strong research, writing, and communication skills with proficiency in grant proposal management, project management, and experience with grant databases.

  
  

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  Outstanding teamwork and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across diverse teams.

  
  

At SmithGroup, we are committed to helping our staff thrive with great projects and time to unwind. We offer flexible scheduling, a hybrid work environment, 3 weeks of PTO within your first year of employment with the option of purchasing additional time off, 8 paid federal holidays, plus 15 extra Fridays off! Our benefits plan includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, wellbeing resources, paid parental leave, a flex spending account and voluntary insurance options. We invest in your future through our 401(k) program with employer matching, tuition reimbursement program, one-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities. While we may ultimately pay more or less than a posted salary range, at the time of posting the anticipated salary range for this position is $75,000 to $82,000 annually and you are eligible for a performance-based bonus each year. To be considered for this role, please create a profile and apply!

If you require reasonable accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to careers@smithgroup.com.