Job Description

Under the direction of the Director of Corporate & External Partnerships, the Project Manager, Grants contributes to the Chicago Housing Authority’s success by identifying, researching, developing, and submitting proposals, trend reports, partnership recommendations and grant applications to secure resources for the organization’s capital and programmatic initiatives.

The Project Manager, Grants will seek funding from local, regional, and national government agencies, foundations, corporate foundations, and support agreed upon strategic initiatives, programs, and capital projects in alignment with organizational goals. The incumbent will identify, research, and analyze organizations, coalitions and programs and provide recommendations to implement mutually beneficial relationships. This includes writing letters of intent, pre-proposals, proposals, grant applications and participating in local meetings, trainings and conferences with a lens for relationship building. In addition, he/she will build and maintain professional relationships with key government, foundation, corporate foundation and community-based organizations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop the grant funding strategy for CHA based on agency goals.

• Lead the design, implementation and execution of all development activities for national, regional, local, foundation and corporate grants to realize or exceed revenue goals.

• Provide project management and oversee pre-submission proposal planning and budget development with collaborating departments. Ensure the timely and efficient submission process according to funding agency guidelines and remain in compliance with agency requirements for grant applications.

• Serve as lead liaison with funding agencies, ensuring compliance with stated regulation guidelines, and responding to other programmatic and financial needs identified by agency personnel.

• Assist CHA personnel through all phases of grant activities where needed, including closeout procedures and serve in an advisory role in the response to all internal and external audits.

• Design, develop, and oversee the formation of new formal collaborations and partnerships as part of the annual planning process or when new opportunities arise; document goals and intended outcomes of the new partnerships in writing for CHA Executive Staff and Board, if necessary.

• Identifies, researches, and develops program designs and modifications to qualify for available funding.

• Prioritizes and develops partnerships with governmental, not-for-profit, and service agencies for the primary purpose of acquiring funding, resources, and relationships for the CHA.

• Coordinates and develops grant applications for CHA for submission in accordance with all required specifications and deadlines.

• Researches and attends local meetings and events within CHA areas of interest or need.

• Utilizes software in developing and implementing tracking systems for government and foundation proposals, and grants, and stewardship.

• Coordinates with CHA departments and external partners in the development of grant applications submitted.

• Provides technical assistance to departments and external partners in operating grant-funded programs per the approved and funded application.

• Assist in the development and execution of activities to strengthen visibility and engagement among the Authority’s many stakeholders in support of the mission and priorities of the CHA

• Prepares departmental status reports regarding the acquisition of grants and prospective partners.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

This position requires an undergraduate degree with a minimum of three (3) years of directly relevant competitive government funding development or foundation experience. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including written, storytelling, verbal, and presentation skills. Must also have effective problem-solving, organizational and analytical skills as well as the ability to work on multiple initiatives simultaneously. Strong project management skills. Computer proficiency required: Grants.gov, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook skills beneficial. Demonstrated experience in grant writing, executing strategic funding plans and programs, developing, and managing budgets and producing quality deliverables within stated timeframes. A proven track record securing major government, corporate and foundation funding and managing the successful development and submission of applications. Must be able to effectively represent the Authority both internally and externally. Ability to maintain confidentiality of privileged information.

BENEFITS AT-A-GLANCE

• Vacation, Sick and Personal, competitive PTO package
• Medical (HMO, PPO, and No employee cost High-Deductible PPO) Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Parking Transit
• Prepaid Legal Services
• Brightstar 529 College Savings Plan
• Identity Theft Protection
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Voluntary Critical Illness Insurance
• Deferred Compensation Plan: Empower 457/401(a) with a 3% employer match
• Pension Plan: CHA makes contributions on behalf of the employee, along with the employee's 3% contribution; 100% vesting occurs after 6 years of continuous employment or opt-out of CHA's Retirement Plan and continues to participate in the Municipal Employees Annuity and Benefit Fund of Chicago
• Hybrid work schedule (position specific) This position may be eligible for remote work following a successful completion of a 90-day probationary period according to CHA’s established policies and procedures.

"Applications will be accepted for 30 days from the date of posting. However, the position may be closed at any point if a sufficient number of qualified applications are received.”

Salary Range: $75,000-$85,000

Grade: S8

FLSA: Exempt

Union: None

• Research, identify, and develop funding opportunities through grants, partnerships, and other resources.
• Write and submit high-quality grant applications, ensuring compliance with funding agency requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams to understand project needs and develop proposals that align with the Authority's goals.
• Monitor and manage the grant application process, including timely submission and follow-up.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for all grant-related activities.
• Stay updated on funding trends, best practices, and changes in the grant landscape.
• Build and maintain relationships with funding agencies, partners, and stakeholders.
• Provide regular updates and reports on grant progress to the Director and relevant teams.
• Assist in the development of strategic plans and initiatives to enhance grant acquisition.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination within the Resident Services department.

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as public administration, non-profit management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in grant writing, proposal development, or a similar role.
• Proven track record of successful grant applications and funding acquisition.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling proposals.
• Strong research and analytical skills to identify funding opportunities.
• Knowledge of grant management software and MS Office suite.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience in the housing or social services sector is preferred.
• A passion for community development and a commitment to the Authority's mission.