WGVU Development Officer, Foundation Relations

This position oversees grant funding opportunities that support WGVU goals and priorities in the areas of technology, education, IDEA, programming, community impact, and other areas as they arise. This role serves as a liaison between WGVU, the GVSU Office of Sponsored Programs, University Institutional Advancement, and GVSU Grants Accounting.
Salary & Benefits:
Salary range of $57,500 - $67,000, commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.
Primary Duties
Responsible for the grants administration process, including researching potential funders, evaluation of RFPs, overseeing management of funded projects, as well as tracking and reporting requirements.
Write, review, and edit proposals to foundations and other potential funders.
Identify, manage, and secure philanthropic gifts from private, corporate, and public foundations.
Develop and maintain relationships with local, state, and federal funding agencies.
Provide leadership for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major foundation grant makers to increase gifts to WGVU.
Work to establish long-term partnerships and strengthen existing relationships with foundation sector and community organizations.
Serve as a liaison between WGVU, the GVSU Office of Sponsored Programs, University Institutional Advancement, and GVSU Grants Accounting.
Manage a portfolio of foundation donors and prospects.
Perform other duties as required/assigned by leadership.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Bachelor's degree in related field.
Minimum of three to five (3-5) years of successful grant writing experience in nonprofit, public broadcasting, or educational setting.
Proven experience in researching, writing, and administering grants.
Ability to take initiative, collaborate, and use innovative techniques to prepare grant applications.
Ability to design, develop, and implement funded projects.
Ability to monitor budgets and expenditures to adhere to grant agreements.
Ability to contribute to a work environment in which integrity, collaboration, respect, and a strong work ethic are valued.
Experience with various computer software applications (Microsoft Office, Outlook, Teams, Monday.com, Raiser’s Edge/CRM, etc).
Commitment to WGVU’s vision of diversity, inclusion, and equity.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
Ability to work within a collaborative multiplatform culture and environment.
Ability to demonstrate professionalism, punctuality, and work self-sufficiently with little direction when required.
Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some nights, weekends, and holidays.
Valid driver’s license and ability to work on location as needed.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Master’s degree.
How to Apply: Attach your cover letter, resume and writing sample. Applications missing required documents will not be considered. The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact Terri Kenney at kenneyt@gvsu.edu. If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at hro@gvsu.edu.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future.
Application Deadline:
Application review begins on September 25, 2026 and this posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/. TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).
Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.