Grant work is carried out by various professionals who are involved in the approval and processing of grant funds to the applicants of the grant. Different job positions such as grant coordinator, grant writer, grant administrator and grant manager perform various tasks related to grant work. Non-profit organizations are generally the greatest beneficiary of grant funds as they need a constant source of income from external sources in order to ensure their day to day functioning.
Grant funds are offered mostly by governmental organizations to nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, health institutions and individuals in need of money. They differ from loans because the recipient is not expected to pay the amount back and it is also different from a donation as the grant received has to be specifically used for the purpose it has been allocated for. For instance, a grant allotted for the study and research of a specific disease such as bird flu has to be utilized for that purpose only.
Responsibilities
Individuals working in different positions in this field carry out tasks and duties specific to their job profile. A grant administrator is someone who approves the grant request of the applicant who could be an individual, an institution, or even a business organization who are in need of funds for specific purposes. They will determine whether the applicant's request is valid or not and designate staff to perform background checks on the applicant. Once the grant is approved and given out to the applicant, they have to ensure that it is utilized for the purpose intended.
A grant writer is someone who prepares the application on behalf of the party, which requires the grant and submits it to the grant approving authority. They may be employed by the organization or work as freelancers. Grant coordinators act as a liaison between the grant providing organization and the applicants and ensure a smooth and speedy processing of the grant fund. They work out the finer details of the grant by conducting meetings with the assigned representatives.
Requirements
Most individuals doing grant work have a minimum college degree with specialization in finance related subjects. A grant writer may possess a special certification in writing while a grant manager needs to have done his master's degree in business administration in order to qualify for the job. Having good communication skills is a major requirement for those seeking jobs in this line of work. Also, the ability to work under pressure and strict deadlines is seen as a valuable trait in this field.
Skills
Individuals working in this field should possess good knowledge about the basic functioning of a grant fund and should also have good analytical abilities. A flair for research work and interest in basic accounting work is also important. Individual positions may need specific skills such as good leadership skills for a grant manager and excellent writing skills in case of a grant writer.
Career Advancement
Advancing to higher positions in this field is generally achieved on the basis of experience and skills displayed by the individual. A grant coordinator may get promoted to the role of a grant manager if he/she possesses the skills and qualifications needed in order to be a manager. Grant writers may advance to senior roles or may take up a teaching position in the same field.
Salary and Benefits
Earning in the field of grant work greatly varies from position to position. On an average, grant writers earn a salary of around $48,000 while a grant manager can earn upwards of $80,000 depending on various factors such as tenure, type of organization, etc. Additional benefits such as health insurance plans, paid leaves, pension plans are part of a grant professional's package. Grant writers who work in a freelance position do not qualify for the additional benefits as they are not considered as full time employees.
Individuals doing grant work have to ensure that the entire process of a grant fund from its application to approval and utilization is carried out in a smooth manner. This is a viable career option for those who aim to work in this field.