Grant Writer

ental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)
 Grant Writer Job Description

 

PAY RANGE: $64,000 - $76,000, exempt position.

FTE: 1.0 FTE (40 hours per week)

HOURS: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm (Hybrid)

BENEFITS: This is a benefited position as outlined in the MHAAO Employee Handbook.

TITLE: Grant Writer

REPORTS TO: Director of Development and Community Engagement 

DEPARTMENT: Administration

 

JOB SUMMARY:

The Grant Writer will be responsible for researching, drafting, and submitting grant proposals to secure funding that supports the mission and programs of MHAAO. This role involves identifying funding opportunities, writing compelling grant applications, submitting proposals and ensuring compliance with grant application requirements. The Grant Writer will collaborate closely with program staff, leadership, and finance teams to create detailed proposals that align with the strategic goals of the organization.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

Expectations:

MHAAO strives to honor cultural and spiritual diversity in the communities we serve as well as honoring Voice and Choice through trauma-informed practices. Being committed to supporting our communities means being committed to constantly assessing our organizational values and the extent to which we are modeling or falling short of them. It also means listening to feedback from our stakeholders and others who have interacted with our organization and taking the time to understand and reflect on those interactions. This commitment is extended from the organization, as well as each employee of MHAAO.

 

Education:

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or 4-5 years relevant work experience.

 

Experience:

• Previous experience in grant writing, fundraising, or nonprofit development.

• Experience in desktop publishing is beneficial.

• Lived experience of mental health and/or addiction recovery is highly valued.

• Familiarity with human services and peer support programs is beneficial.

 

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Strong writing and storytelling skills.

• High level understanding of grant writing techniques and utilizing data to tell a story.

• Ability to effectively and efficiently collaborate with program staff, managers, and leadership.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines in a fast paced setting.

• Ability to navigate ambiguity and uncertainty, maintaining flexibility and adaptability to align with evolving funding priorities and organizational needs.

• Strong level of organization, detail oriented processes, and research skills.

• Strong project management skills with the ability to proactively follow up with internal departments to gather necessary information in a timely manner to ensure deadlines are met.

• Ability to analyze and interpret mental health and recovery-related publications, professional journals, and government regulations.

• Sensitivity to diverse communities and an understanding of trauma-informed approaches.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

Grant Research and Development

• Research various grant opportunities and assess their alignment with MHAAO’s mission.

• Identify funding sources, including foundations, corporations, and government agencies.

• Maintain a grant tracking system, ensuring timely submissions and follow-ups.

• Conduct needs assessments to determine funding priorities in collaboration with leadership.

 

Grant Writing and Submission

• Research, develop, and write compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and funding reports tailored to funder priorities and guidelines.

• Collaborate with Finance to develop budgets and supplemental materials in partnership program teams.

• Ensure all grant applications meet formatting and submission requirements and adhere to deadlines.

• Manage the full grant cycle from identifying opportunities to drafting, editing, and submitting proposals.

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of grant applications, awards, and reporting requirements.

 

Post-Award Grant Management

• Monitor grant compliance and ensure all reporting requirements are met.

• Assist with impact reports and final reports for funders.

• Maintain communication with funding agencies and foundations regarding grant status.

 

Collaboration and Communication

• Work cross-functionally with internal department directors as subject matter experts to gather necessary information, ensuring grant proposals align with organizational goals and funder requirements.

• Communicate clearly and assertively to follow up on information requests and keep projects on track, meeting tight deadlines without unnecessary delays.

• Translate complex ideas into compelling, accessible narratives that effectively communicate program impact to funders.

• Maintain transparency and consistency in grant communications, ensuring all stakeholders are informed of deadlines, progress, and submission requirements.

• Foster strong relationships with funding agencies, partners, and internal teams to support ongoing grant development and reporting needs.

 

Background Check:

A criminal background check may be conducted by MHAAO in accordance with the MHAAO background check policy. A criminal record does not necessarily exclude an individual from employment with MHAAO.

 

Pre-Hire Drug Screen:

As part of MHAAO's commitment to fostering a safe, productive, and professional workplace, we require pre-hire drug screenings for all potential employees. The screening will be conducted in accordance with MHAAO's drug screening policy, as well as applicable state and federal laws.

 

Amount of Travel:

Minimal travel may be required for funding-related events, meetings, and training. A valid Oregon Driver’s License and proof of vehicle insurance is preferred.

 

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical extension of the position. 

Employment with Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon is "at-will." This means employees are free to resign at any time, with or without cause, and Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice. As an at-will employee, it is not guaranteed, in any manner, that you will be employed with the Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon for any set period of time.  

Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment opportunities at Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon are based upon one’s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, Veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.