Van Cleef Engineering is looking for a Grants & Sponsored Funding Specialist for our growing Funding Services practice. This person will have an entrepreneurial attitude, be enthusiastic, and be interested in pursuing and leading grant applications and other sponsored loan and funding program applications, and administering the funding requirements of these projects for a diverse mix of clients to expand VCEA’s market share. Municipal and infrastructure grants will be an immediate focus, as will be the pursuit of low-interest loan and principal forgiveness opportunities through State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, such as the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank/Water Bank, as well as other government-sponsored programs (such as USDA, FEMA, etc.) This position can sit in any of our NJ or PA offices and offers the opportunity for a hybrid schedule.

The ideal candidate would have experience conducting rigorous research on grants and funding opportunities, collaborating with project teams to develop compelling proposals, and ensuring timely submission of applications and supporting materials. Beyond the application phase, the Specialist will monitor project progress, manage compliance, cultivate positive relationships with stakeholders, and generally administer/manage appropriate and applicable requirements of the funding program.

Primary Responsibilities, include but are not limited to:

• Research and Analysis: Stay informed about relevant government policies, reporting requirements, programs, and funding opportunities. Conduct thorough research on the specific requirements and criteria for grants and other funding offered by various government agencies. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences to build expertise and stay updated on changes in funding processes
• Funding Proposal Development: Work closely with internal and client project teams to understand their business/project initiatives and develop compelling grant proposals and/or other materials as appropriate to secure funding. Clearly articulate project goals, objectives, methodologies, and expected outcomes in a manner that aligns with funding guidelines and criteria. Collaborate with project managers and finance teams to develop accurate and compliant budgets for projects proposed for funding. Identify potential risks associated with grant applications and other funded projects and develop strategies to mitigate these risks
• Funding Application Submission: Prepare and submit grant applications in accordance with the timelines and requirements specified by the funding agencies
• Administration: Post-award, ensure that all funded projects adhere to funding terms and conditions and prepare regular progress reports for submission to the funding agency. Effectively communicate with funding agencies to address queries, provide additional information, and maintain positive relationships. Develop systems for monitoring and evaluating the progress and impact of projects funded by grants. Implement metrics and indicators to assess project success and adjust, as necessary. Proactively address challenges and obstacles that may arise during the grant implementation phase
• Fieldwork: As may be necessary, assist the project team and/or stakeholders with reconnaissance and other information potentially gathered in the field/at prospective project locations. Provie client presentations and coordination
• Meetings: Prepare agendas and minutes as appropriate for meetings. Attendance at evening or other out-of-hours meetings may be occasionally required

Required Skills, Experience and Qualifications:

• Associate’s Degree required, B.A. or B.S preferred
• Minimum of 2 years (4 years preferred) of progressive experience as a grant and funding specialist pursuing grants and loan programs, ideally for an engineering company; or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the responsibilities of the position.
• Experience preparing and editing technical documents, reports, publications, and presentations.
• Proven record of successfully funded application submittals.
• Practical problem-solving abilities and critical and analytical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to communicate information clearly and succinctly to project team members.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive interpersonal relationships and to adapt to different communication styles and interact effectively to maintain a team environment.
• Ability to thrive in a client deadline-driven work environment - organize, multitask, prioritize, and manage workflow.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain constant attention to detail, and work collaboratively and independently to perform effectively under tight deadlines.
• Advanced Windows proficiency, including MS Professional (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat.
• Proficiency with Microsoft TEAMS

Benefits:

Van Cleef Engineering Associates offers group health insurance including medical coverage through Blue Cross / Blue Shield, dental and vision coverage.

Additional benefits include 401(k) savings plan, paid holidays, vacation and sick days, life insurance, long term disability, voluntary long term care coverage, tuition reimbursement and a flexible spending plan. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Additional Information:

VCEA is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or veteran status.