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.SmithGroup is a four-time award recipient of Chicago's Top Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune!

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.

  
  

SmithGroup's competitive compensation and benefit package is designed to meet the needs of a diverse staff. It includes flexible scheduling, a hybrid work environment, 401(k), parental leave, wellbeing resources, PTO immediately available to new hires, plus 15 extra Fridays off - on top of holidays. Join us and see first-hand how these and other programs - like one-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities - build culture, enhance collaboration and yield richer, more inclusive solutions.

If you are not sure that you meet all of the suggested qualifications described above, please don't leave this page. Your talents and attributes could be just what we're looking for - and we strongly encourage you to apply. If you need additional accommodations to complete the application process, please contact careers@smithgroup.com