Crane Schools is hiring: Grant Writer/Community Relations Coordinator in Yuma

Grant Writer/Community Relations Coordinator

The Grant Writer/Community Relations Coordinator will lead district grant development and post-award compliance while managing comprehensive communications—including media relations, digital content, public relations, and community engagement—to support district initiatives and maintain consistent, strategic messaging.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Research and Identify Funding Opportunities: Monitor philanthropic websites, review trade publications, and maintain contact with state and federal agencies to identify current and future funding opportunities aligned with district goals.
• Develop and Prepare Grant Proposals: Adopt projects, gather research materials, compose compelling narratives, compile required data, complete necessary forms, and submit proposals and supporting documentation to appropriate funding sources.
• Professional Development and Collaboration: Attend conferences, workshops, and professional development sessions to stay informed about new grant opportunities and strengthen relationships with funding agencies.
• Coordinate with District Staff: Conduct meetings with faculty, administrators, and program staff to determine funding needs, develop project ideas, and align grant proposals with district priorities.
• Maintain Grant Records: Establish and maintain an organized database or library of all grant applications—both funded and unfunded—for future reference, tracking, and potential resubmission.
• Communicate Funding Opportunities: Notify appropriate personnel of potential grants and match opportunities with district and campus-specific needs.
• Prepare Award Nominations: Identify and submit nominations for district, state, and federal recognition programs.
• Post-Award Management: Track reporting deadlines, assist in compliance documentation, and ensure timely submission of progress or financial reports.

Community Relations

• Media and Public Relations: Serve as the district’s liaison with local and regional media representatives. Coordinate interviews, press releases, and responses to media inquiries to ensure consistent and accurate messaging.
• Writing and Editing: Write, proofread, and edit district publications, newsletters, website content, and other communications to maintain high standards of clarity, accuracy, and professionalism.
• Strategic Communications and Crisis Management: Manage public relations, media relations, and crisis communications; provide counsel and support to executive leadership during emergency or high-profile situations. Serve as district spokesperson and manage relationships with external communication partners and agencies.
• Digital and Social Media Management: Conceptualize, create, and publish engaging digital content, including posts, photos, videos, and stories across district platforms. Write and edit all social media copy to maintain brand consistency in look, tone, and messaging.
• Manage and maintain the district’s social media content calendar to ensure timely and strategic communication.
• Web Management: Act as the Crane ESD webmaster, ensuring content is current, accessible, and aligned with district communication goals and compliance standards.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, community organizations, local businesses, and governmental agencies to promote district initiatives and events.
• Represent the district at community meetings, school functions, and public forums to enhance visibility and engagement.
• Brand Management: Ensure that all district materials and digital communications reflect consistent branding, messaging, and visual identity across all platforms.
• General Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor or district leadership team.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Education, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of experience in grant writing, management, and/or community relations. Experience in a school district or public agency setting preferred.
• Technical Skills: Advanced computer proficiency, including familiarity with communications software, email marketing tools, content management systems, and web analytics platforms.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional oral and written communication abilities; demonstrated skill in preparing proposals, reports, press releases, and public presentations.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with staff, community members, partners, and funding organizations.
• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities.

REPORTS TO

• Executive Director of Human Resources and Communications.

Additional Information

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Other
• Industries: Primary and Secondary Education