Position Status: Part-Time, Hourly, Non-ExemptCompensation: $29.60 - $33.70, DOE Hybrid Location: On-Site and Remote, does require you to be available for onsite workRequirements: A resume and cover letter are required to apply for this position
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Director of Advancement, the Grant Writer is an essential part of the Advancement team, responsible for managing the grant program and securing grant funding from foundation, corporate, service organization and government resources in support of the Zoo’s overall mission.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:Grants Writing and Management
Manages the grant program and grant calendar, overseeing all grant submissions and ensuring all deadlines are met
Researches grant opportunities from various sources that match the goals and objectives of the Zoo
Communicates with potential grantors prior to submission to ensure alignment
Works closely with various departments to gather information and statistics for grants
Writes and submits grant proposals on time
Follows up with grantors to determine/monitor grant status in timely manner
Writes and edits thank you letters and other correspondence with grantors and potential grantors
Regularly reports fundraising activities and progress to the Director of Advancement
Maintains the grants calendar to track grant and reporting deadlines (updates regularly)
Accurately tracks and records donor relationship management activities related to grants
Develops and evaluates measures of success in grant activities and produces reports to track results
Works to increase overall grant support by aligning Zoo programs with grant guideline
General Advancement Responsibilities
Develops and maintains effective, fruitful, and long-term relationships with donors
Assists in maintaining donor databases and filing system
Contributes to Zoo News, social media, and other applicable media/publications as appropriate
Assist with the creation of fundraising materials and activities (including marketing materials, emails, appeals, signs, website, and events) to ensure the highest standards of the Zoo brand integrity
Creates mailing lists and reports as needed
Leads some donor cultivation/stewardship tours
Provides input on policies and procedures related to Advancement
Stays current and knowledgeable on AZA, the Santa Barbara Zoo’s mission, collection, history, programs, projects, and practices
Participates in and contributes to regular Advancement department meetings
Supports fundraising efforts for special projects and special programs
Contributes to Advancement department annual planning and budgeting process
Supports all Advancement cultivation/stewardship activities and events
Shares critical information, best practices, and procedures on a consistent basis with staff
Attends professional fundraising training opportunities as warranted
Creates some donor recognition gifts and coordinates distribution of these gifts as needed
Responsible for networking within the community as a Zoo Advancement representative
Other assignments as needed
SECONDARY DUTIES:
General Advancement Support
Assists with day-of support for Advancement department special events including VIP experiences, campaign events, and other donor activities and events. Duties vary and include tasks from set up to clean up and follow up.
As needed, assists with final preparation support during the month leading up to Zoofari Ball, day/night of assistance, as well as final wrap up assistance
Organization-wide Responsibilities
Adheres to Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible
Participates in Zoo-wide events such as El Dia del Nino and DIGS
Participates in bi-monthly all-employee meetings
Participates in cross-departmental committees/teams as a contributing representative of the Advancement department
Guest Relations Responsibilities
Greets every guest with a smile
Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
Insures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
Associates with guests to assist and share information
Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
Maintains a clean, neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
Maintains a clean, neat work area that is inviting to all.
Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings
Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Employee Pledge, and our Core Values
Other duties as assigned
POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience preferably in fundraising, communications, marketing, or related field
Prior successful experience in fundraising preferred; minimum 2 years
Prior grant writing experience preferred
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications
Valid CA Driver’s License with good driving record and insurance coverage is required
Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check
TB testing yearly
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Ability to work successfully in a shared open space work environment with regular interruptions
Ability to think strategically and plan accordingly to further the Advancement effort
Excellent verbal and written communications skills
Strong writing, editing and proofreading skills
Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and guests and to work with all levels of management
Ability to maintain confidentiality and work with sensitive information
Capacity for high level attention to detail
Demonstrates high degree of accuracy and strong analytical skills
Ability to exercise safe work habits
Excellent organizational skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Ability to effectively multi-task, use independent judgment, and produce quality work within a set timeframe to meet deadlines
Ability to effectively work under pressure, multi-task effectively, use independent judgment and produce quality work within tight time frame; meeting deadlines
Ability to create and implement systems and follow-up processes
Must be a proactive and creative problem-solver; a team player with motivation to develop relationships and work collaboratively
Understanding of telephone and office etiquette
Ability to handle conflict resolution in a professional manner and to respond to sensitive matters or situation with discretion, tact, and confidentiality
Ability to relate to persons of all ages and diverse backgrounds, skills, and abilities
Ability to present self in a personable, professional, and energetic manner
Ability to work flexible hours (including some holidays and weekends) and travel as needed
Ability to exercise safe work habits
Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel
Knowledge of databases/Raiser’s Edge preferred
Demonstrates initiative, creativity and enthusiasm, as well as strong organizational skills
Enjoys working with people especially volunteers
Physical Demands & Work Environment
Most work is performed inside the office environment
Occasionally involves working out-of-doors in all weather conditions
Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility
Requires the ability to work in a shared open space work environment
Must be able to regularly climb stairs, manipulate computer and office tools, stand/walk for up to eight continuous hours
Ability to occasionally lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs
The ability to coordinate a variety of tasks simultaneously and handle tension and stress in a positive manner is required
Must attend all events related to the position
Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and use tools
Supportive and open employment culture
Must attend all events related to the position
Maintains a clean and organized work area
Involves some weekend, early morning, and evening hours
Tools Used
Computer with MS Office Suite and other software packages
Standard office equipment; telephone, copier, facsimile machine, calculator, and others as required
Color and laser printer
35 mm and digital camera
Electric cart
Paper cutter
Laminator
Two-way radio
Cart
You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position--
This job description is representative of the expectations of the position described. Additional duties, reporting relationships, and/or position criteria may be assigned as deemed necessary by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative. No changes to this job description shall be made without written permission by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative.
The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment, and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
Flexible work from home options available.