Understanding the Differences in Grant-Related Job Titles: What They Mean and What Skills You Need
Understanding the Differences in Grant-Related Job Titles: What They Mean and What Skills You Need
In the nonprofit world, job titles related to grants can sometimes feel confusing or even interchangeable. But knowing the difference between these roles can help you better understand the responsibilities, expectations, and skills needed to succeed. Whether you’re exploring a career in grant writing, looking to hire, or simply want to understand the landscape, here’s a breakdown of common grant-related job titles and what they typically mean.
1. Grant Writer*
What they do:
Grant Writers focus primarily on researching, writing, and submitting grant proposals. Their main job is crafting compelling narratives and budgets that align with funders’ priorities. They often work closely with program staff to gather information and ensure the proposal accurately reflects the organization’s work.
Skills needed:
Strong writing and storytelling abilities
Research and data collection skills
Understanding of nonprofit funding sources and requirements
Attention to detail, especially with deadlines and budgets
*A quick note on terminology: Many professionals dislike or even refuse to use the term “grant writer” because, technically, you don’t write a grant—you write an application or proposal to win a grant. This subtle distinction emphasizes the strategic, persuasive nature of the work, highlighting that the goal is not just to write but to secure funding.
2. Grant Manager
What they do:
Grant Managers handle the administrative and compliance side of grants. Once a grant is awarded, they ensure the organization meets reporting requirements, tracks budgets, and monitors project progress. They often serve as the main point of contact between the nonprofit and the funder.
Skills needed:
Project management and organizational skills
Financial literacy for budget tracking
Communication skills for reporting and updates
Familiarity with grant compliance and regulations
3. Grants Coordinator
What they do:
Grants Coordinators often support both the writing and management processes. They might help identify funding opportunities, assist in proposal preparation, and maintain records of grant applications and reports. This role is often entry-level or mid-level, bridging the gap between grant writers and managers.
Skills needed:
Multitasking and organizational skills
Basic writing and editing skills
Ability to manage databases and track deadlines
Good communication and collaboration skills
4. Development Officer (with a grants focus)
What they do:
While Development Officers have a broader fundraising role, those with a grants focus specifically concentrate on securing foundation and government funding. They may oversee grant strategy, build relationships with funders, and coordinate with grant writers and managers to meet fundraising goals.
Skills needed:
Strategic planning and relationship-building
Knowledge of fundraising and grantmaking landscapes
Leadership and team coordination
Strong communication and negotiation skills
Other Less Common Grant-Related Titles
Grants Specialist
A Grants Specialist typically focuses on both the administrative and technical aspects of grant funding. This role often involves preparing proposals, tracking grant submissions, ensuring compliance, and maintaining detailed records. The position may blend elements of grant writing and grant management, with an emphasis on accuracy and process.
Proposal Writer
Similar to a Grant Writer, a Proposal Writer crafts funding applications, but this title is sometimes used more broadly across sectors—not just nonprofit grants but also corporate sponsorships, contracts, or government bids. Proposal Writers must be skilled at persuasive writing tailored to diverse audiences and funding sources.
Overlapping Roles and Responsibilities
It’s important to recognize that in many nonprofits, especially smaller organizations, these roles often overlap significantly. A single person might wear multiple hats—writing grant proposals, managing awarded grants, coordinating deadlines, and even developing relationships with funders. This overlap means flexibility and a broad skill set are highly valuable. However, in larger organizations, these functions tend to be more clearly divided among specialized positions. Understanding this overlap can help job seekers and employers set realistic expectations and prepare for the variety of tasks involved in grant-related work.
Here's what you should read next:
If you’re interested in working with grants, think about which part of the process excites you most: writing, managing, coordinating, or strategy. Each role requires different strengths but all play a vital part in successful grant funding. Building skills like writing, organization, communication, and relationship management will set you up for success no matter the title.
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Sheena Link is a grantwriter, nonprofit strategist, and the Co-Founder & COO of PureGrant. After years of writing grant applications, wrangling boards, and managing fundraising teams, she helped build PureGrant to make the grantwriting process faster, smarter, and less painful for nonprofits. She writes about funding strategy, nonprofit careers, and what actually works in real-world development offices. She can be reached at sheena@puregrant.com.