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If you’ve ever Googled “grant writer job description template,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again: stiff bullet points, generic responsibilities, and bland wording that could describe any job. The problem? Those kinds of posts don’t actually attract great candidates—they just fill space on your careers page.
Here’s the truth: a strong grant writer job description isn’t about checking HR boxes. It’s about showing the kind of impact the role will have, why it matters to your organization, and what a qualified grant writer actually cares about when they read your posting.
Before we dive into templates, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post. That guide breaks down why generic job ads fail to convert quality applicants, and what you can do differently.
But since you’re here for something specific, let’s walk through how to write a grant writer job description that stands out, attracts mission-driven candidates, and helps you hire with confidence.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What a Grant Writer Actually Does - Their Duties Explained
A grant writer isn’t just someone who “writes proposals.” At their best, they’re strategic storytellers who help organizations secure the funding that keeps programs alive and growing.
In practice, a grant writer researches potential funders, crafts compelling proposals, and makes sure every submission is accurate, timely, and aligned with the funder’s requirements. But beyond the technical writing, they’re also relationship-builders—translating your mission into language that resonates with donors, foundations, and agencies.
That’s why great grant writers blend research, writing, and persuasion with soft skills like persistence, attention to detail, and emotional intelligence. Because when done right, their work directly shapes the resources your organization has to make an impact.
Two Great Grant Writer Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Grant Writer
Job Title: Senior Grant Writer – BrightPath Foundation (Remote, U.S.)
💼 Full-Time | Remote | $65,000–$80,000/year (Based on Experience)
🎥 Meet the Team:
Before you read further, hear directly from our Programs Director about what it’s like to be part of BrightPath: [Watch Video Here]
Who We Are
BrightPath Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding educational access for underserved youth. Over the past 15 years, we’ve secured over $50M in funding to build mentorship programs, provide scholarships, and launch community learning hubs. We believe in equity, opportunity, and the power of education to change lives.
What You’ll Be Doing
We’re looking for a skilled grant writer who can help us secure funding to expand our programs nationally. You’ll:
- Research and identify funding opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government sources.
- Write and edit persuasive grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and reports.
- Collaborate with program managers to align funding requests with organizational needs.
- Manage the grant calendar, ensuring deadlines are always met.
- Track and report on grant outcomes and funder relationships.
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of proven grant writing experience (nonprofit sector preferred).
- Strong track record of securing 5- and 6-figure grants.
- Excellent writing, editing, and research skills.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines with precision.
- Collaborative, detail-oriented, and mission-driven.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary ($65K–$80K)
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (90-day start)
- 401(k) with 4% employer match
- 20 paid vacation days + 10 holidays
- Annual professional development stipend ($1,000)
Why This Role is a Great Fit
You’ll have a direct hand in shaping our impact. Every successful grant you write means more scholarships, more mentors, and more doors opened for young people. This is your chance to use your writing talent to create real change.
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click here to start your short evaluation: 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train
Job Title: Junior Grant Writer (Training Provided) – BrightPath Foundation (Remote, U.S.)
💼 Full-Time | Remote | $45,000–$55,000/year
🎥 Meet the Team:
Hear from our Grant Writing Manager about how we train and support new writers: [Watch Video Here]
Who We Are
BrightPath Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding educational access for underserved youth. Over the past 15 years, we’ve secured over $50M in funding to build mentorship programs, provide scholarships, and launch community learning hubs. We believe in equity, opportunity, and the power of education to change lives.
What You’ll Be Doing
This is an entry-level role for someone who loves writing, research, and making an impact. You’ll:
- Assist with researching grant opportunities.
- Draft and edit sections of proposals (with mentorship and review).
- Help maintain the grant database and track deadlines.
- Support senior staff in preparing grant reports.
- Learn how to tailor messaging to funder priorities.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong writing and research skills (academic or professional).
- Attention to detail and willingness to learn.
- Interest in nonprofits, fundraising, or social impact.
- No grant writing experience required—training provided.
- A bachelor’s degree is a plus, but not required.
Perks & Benefits
- Starting salary of $45K–$55K
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (90-day start)
- 15 paid vacation days + 10 holidays
- Remote work with flexible hours
- Mentorship program and on-the-job grant writing training
Why This Role is a Great Fit
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could use my writing to make a difference,” this is your opportunity. We’ll train you, support you, and give you the tools to build a rewarding career in grant writing.
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click here to start your short evaluation: 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Why These Grant Writer Job Descriptions Work
A job description isn’t just a checklist—it’s a piece of marketing. Here’s why the two examples above stand out and actually attract the right grant writers.
✅ 1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a vague “Grant Writer,” the titles show seniority, employer name, and location type (remote). For example, “Senior Grant Writer – BrightPath Foundation (Remote, U.S.)” instantly signals relevance. Specificity builds trust and filters in the right applicants.
✅ 2. A Human Introduction (with Video)
Both posts start with a short, warm hook and a team video before the company overview. That little touch of personality—showing real people—goes a long way in helping candidates picture themselves on the team. Most job posts never do this.
✅ 3. Mission-Driven “About Us”
Instead of just listing history or dry facts, the “Who We Are” section explains the foundation’s mission and impact ($50M secured, scholarships, community hubs). For purpose-driven roles like grant writing, this context is magnetic—it shows candidates why the work matters.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Written as Outcomes
Notice the phrasing:
- “Keep our grant calendar on track” instead of “Manage deadlines.”
- “Shape our impact” instead of “Write reports.”
This shows why the work is important, not just what it is. It connects tasks to outcomes, which attracts higher-quality applicants.
✅ 5. Requirements Show Flexibility
- The senior role lists proven track records and specific experience.
- The junior role invites people with strong writing skills—even without grant experience—by saying “training provided” and “degree is a plus, not required.”
This way, you don’t scare off great candidates who can grow into the role.
✅ 6. Transparent Salary & Benefits
Each post lists salary ranges, insurance, vacation days, and perks upfront. This builds credibility and filters for serious applicants who align with your budget. Top candidates expect transparency—hiding salary info signals red flags.
✅ 7. Candidate-First Application Process
Instead of the classic “email us your CV,” both posts show respect for applicants by saying:
“We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen.”
This not only sets you apart but also tells candidates they’ll be evaluated fairly, not ghosted.
✅ 8. Emotional “Why This Role is a Great Fit” Section
Both templates have a pitch to the candidate:
- Senior role → “Every grant you secure means more scholarships and programs.”
- Junior role → “If you’ve ever thought, ‘I wish I could use my writing to make a difference,’ this is your opportunity.”
These are written to inspire and connect, not just inform.
Example of a Bad Grant Writer Job Description (And What Makes It Fall Short)
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Grant Writer
Company: BrightPath Foundation
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a grant writer to prepare proposals and research funding opportunities. The grant writer will be responsible for ensuring all proposals are submitted on time.
Key Responsibilities
- Research funding sources.
- Write and edit proposals.
- Submit proposals before deadlines.
- Maintain grant records.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- 2–3 years of experience writing grants.
- Strong writing skills.
- Ability to work independently.
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@brightpath.org. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
Just “Grant Writer.” Nothing about the level of experience, the organization’s mission, or whether the role is remote. Top candidates scroll right past titles that feel vague. - Cold, Bland Summary
“Prepare proposals and research funding opportunities” could describe hundreds of roles. There’s no sense of impact, mission, or why the role matters. - Responsibilities Are Too Vague
“Write and edit proposals” isn’t enough. Good posts connect tasks to outcomes (like securing funding for programs). Here, everything feels transactional. - Minimal, Exclusionary Requirements
Listing “Bachelor’s degree” and “2–3 years experience” with no flexibility shuts out passionate candidates who may be skilled writers but haven’t held the formal title yet. - No Salary or Benefits Info
Leaving this out feels outdated and untrustworthy. Transparency matters—candidates want to know if the job fits their financial needs before applying. - Dismissive Application Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” signals that applicants might be ghosted. Compare that to a modern, candidate-first process where everyone gets a response.
Zero Personality in the CTA
The “How to Apply” is cold and uninspiring. Instead of motivating candidates, it reads like a bureaucratic checkbox.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Grant Writer Job Post Stand Out
Even after you’ve nailed the basics—clear titles, strong intros, transparent salary—there are small touches that can set your job description apart from the hundreds of generic ones out there. Here are a few:
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Fraudulent job ads are becoming more common. Adding a short notice builds trust and reassures candidates.
Example:
“We take applicant privacy seriously. BrightPath will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during the hiring process.”
🌴 2. Mention Leave and Flexibility
Candidates want to know they’ll have time to recharge. Even a simple line about PTO or flexible scheduling makes your post more attractive.
Example:
“Enjoy 20 paid vacation days plus 10 holidays each year, so you can rest and come back refreshed.”
📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Especially for grant writing, many people are eager to learn. Signaling that you invest in professional development can expand your talent pool.
Example:
“We provide an annual $1,000 professional development stipend so you can attend writing workshops, conferences, or training that advance your career.”
🎥 4. Include a Short Video from Your Team
A simple Loom or YouTube video from the hiring manager or team leader adds authenticity and warmth. Candidates want to see the real people they’d be working with.
Example:
A 60-second video where your Programs Director explains what success in this role looks like.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🤝 5. Show How You Respect Applicants’ Time
Don’t let your job ad sound like it’s all about you. Mention your application process, and frame it in a respectful way.
Example:
“We review every application carefully and respond to all candidates. We respect your time and commitment.”
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone for Your Job Post
It feels like everyone is using AI to generate job posts these days—even some ATS platforms offer “one-click job description” features. But here’s the problem: if you rely on AI blindly, you’ll end up with job ads that sound exactly like every other generic template online. And that means you’ll attract the wrong candidates.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- Generic, forgettable wording. AI defaults to safe phrases like “strong communication skills” and “ability to work independently,” which don’t actually inspire anyone.
- No reflection of your culture. A one-click job post doesn’t tell candidates who you are, why you exist, or what it’s like to work with you.
- Attracts the wrong crowd. Generic posts invite generic applications—usually from people who mass-apply without much thought.
✅ The Smart Way to Use AI
AI can be powerful—if you treat it like a writing assistant, not a replacement. The key is to feed it real inputs about your company and the role.
For example, instead of typing:
“Write me a grant writer job description.”
Try this:
“Help me write a job post for BrightPath Foundation. We’re hiring a Grant Writer to secure funding for youth education programs. Our culture is collaborative, mission-driven, and flexible. We want to attract candidates who are detail-oriented, passionate about nonprofits, and strong storytellers. We offer $65K–$80K, health insurance, and 20 vacation days. Here’s our hiring process: [insert details]. Please make the tone warm, approachable, and authentic.”
This way, AI takes your raw notes and polishes them into something structured and readable—without stripping away your authenticity.
⚡ Bottom line: Don’t let AI erase your company’s voice. Use it as a tool to sharpen your job posts, not as a shortcut that spits out lifeless copy.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style
Job Title: Grant Writer – [Your Organization’s Name] (Remote or In-Person)
💼 Full-Time | $XX–$XX/year (Based on Experience)
👋 Join Our Mission
If you’re a talented writer who loves turning ideas into impact, this role is for you. As a grant writer at [Your Organization], you’ll help secure funding that keeps our programs thriving. Every proposal you craft will directly support [insert your mission—e.g., youth education, community health, climate action].
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert short Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
At [Your Organization], we believe in [insert values]. Over the past [X years], we’ve [insert impact: “provided 5,000 scholarships,” “served 10,000 meals,” “built 20 community hubs”]. We’re a small but mighty team that cares deeply about making change—and we’re excited to welcome someone who shares that passion.
What You’ll Do
- Research potential funding opportunities.
- Write persuasive grant proposals and reports.
- Collaborate with program staff to align requests with needs.
- Keep the grants calendar organized and deadlines on track.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong writing and research skills.
- Attention to detail and persistence.
- Experience in grant writing is a plus—but we value passion and drive above all.
Perks & Benefits
- Transparent salary range
- Health, dental, vision insurance
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on strengths, not résumés.
Click here to complete your short evaluation 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Grant Writer
Location: [Remote / City, State]
Salary: $XX–$XX/year
Type: Full-Time
Job Brief
We are looking for a Grant Writer to join our team and help us secure funding to support [your mission]. You will be responsible for researching funding opportunities, drafting proposals, and managing the grant calendar to ensure timely submissions.
Responsibilities
- Research funding sources and assess eligibility.
- Write grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and reports.
- Collaborate with staff to align program needs with funding opportunities.
- Maintain accurate records and track deadlines.
Requirements
- Proven writing skills (grant writing experience preferred).
- Strong research and organizational abilities.
- Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
- Degree in English, Communications, or related field (preferred but not required).
Benefits
- Competitive salary and health benefits.
- Paid vacation and holidays.
- Professional growth opportunities.
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make our process fair, fast, and transparent.
Click here to apply 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Writing a great job description is only half the battle—the real challenge is finding out who can actually deliver once the applications start rolling in. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how it helps:
🚀 Quickly Spot Your Best Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates applicants as they apply, then scores and ranks them on a performance-based leaderboard. You instantly see who rises to the top—without sifting through résumés for hours.
🧪 Test Real-World Skills, Not Just Credentials
With Workscreen’s one-click skill test, you can generate a relevant skill test tailored to the role. Instead of guessing based on résumés, you see how candidates actually perform in scenarios that matter to your organization.
🛡️ Eliminate Low-Effort and AI-Generated Applications
WorkScreen filters out low-effort “spray-and-pray” candidates who mass-apply with copy-paste answers or AI-generated résumés. This means you only focus on the people who are serious, skilled, and committed.
✨ Bottom line: You’ve learned how to write a job description that attracts great grant writers. Now let WorkScreen handle the heavy lifting of evaluating them—so you can hire faster, smarter, and with confidence.
Sign up for WorkScreen.io today and streamline your hiring process.
FAQ
In the U.S., the average salary for a grant writer typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the type of organization.
- Entry-level grant writers may start around $40K–$50K.
- Experienced writers with a strong track record of winning large grants can earn $80K+, especially at larger nonprofits, universities, or healthcare organizations.
When writing your job post, always include a clear salary range to build trust and attract serious applicants.
A successful grant writer combines technical writing skills with strategic thinking and attention to detail. Key skills to look for include:
- Strong research and analytical skills (to identify funding opportunities).
- Excellent writing and editing (clear, persuasive, and concise).
- Project management (keeping deadlines and calendars on track).
- Collaboration (working with program and finance teams).
- Persistence and adaptability (handling rejections and revising proposals).
Soft skills like empathy, storytelling, and the ability to translate impact into funder language are often what separates a good grant writer from a great one.
Not always. While many employers list a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, or a related field as a preference, it’s not a strict requirement. What matters most is proven writing ability, research skills, and a track record of securing funding (or the potential to learn with training).
It depends on your needs:
- In-house grant writers are ideal if your organization relies heavily on grants and you want someone embedded in your team long-term.
- Freelancers or contractors can be a smart choice for smaller organizations or projects with limited funding needs.
Many nonprofits use a mix—retaining an in-house coordinator and outsourcing larger, more complex proposals to experienced freelance writers.
Look beyond the résumé. Ask about:
- Win rate: How often have their proposals secured funding?
- Grant size: Have they written successful applications for small local grants, large federal grants, or both?
- References: Can they provide examples of grants awarded through their work?
Using a platform like WorkScreen.io helps you test real-world skills during the hiring process—before making a final decision.
Beyond general job boards, you can:
- Post on specialized nonprofit job sites like Idealist.org.
- Tap into professional associations like the Grant Professionals Association (GPA).
- Leverage LinkedIn groups and nonprofit networks.
Use referrals—often, your current staff or board members may know skilled grant writers.
