Project Manager, Grants

Supervisor: Chief Operating Officer

About this Role:

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and motivated by the mission of expanding educational opportunity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the full lifecycle of privately funded grants from award to close
• Ensure grant activities comply with funder terms and foundation policies
• Prepare and submit interim and final grant reports that accurately reflect program outcomes, financial activity, and lessons learned
• Monitor project budgets, ensuring that funds are properly allocated and expenses remain within grant guidelines
• Track deadlines, reporting requirements, and deliverables for all grants
• Manage concurrent awards at varying stages, maintaining clear documentation and audit-ready records for each grant in the foundation's portfolio.
• Serve as the foundation's primary point of contact for grant-related expenses and activities with district staff, school leaders, and program managers.

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure the timely and successful execution of grant projects.
• Maintain grant data, timelines, and documentation in the foundation's project management and financial systems.
• Manage direct pay and reimbursement processes, including purchase orders, invoicing, and budget reconciliation
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to address potential project challenges.
• Monitor expenditures against approved budgets and escalate variances in a timely manner.
• Support internal audits and contribute to the continuous improvement of grants management processes.

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field
• 3-5 years of experience in grants management, project management, program operations, or a related role
• Proven experience in project management, specifically in the context of grants administration of $500K or greater
• Strong financial literacy and comfort with budget monitoring and reconciliation
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills with a keen attention to detail
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster teamwork and collaboration.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

• Experience working within or in close partnership with a K–12 school district
• Familiarity with compliance expectations of private philanthropic funders
• Experience serving as a fiduciary partner on multi-site grant initiatives
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Asana) and financial software applications (e.g., Sage Intacct, Bill.com, ProcureDesk)
• PMP, Six Sigma or similar project management certification

• Project and process management
• Budget development and tracking
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Strong organizational and analytical skills

• Salary Range $75K - $95K
• Comprehensive benefits package:
• Health, dental, and vision insurance with employer contribution
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Comprehensive time off, including PTO and paid holidays
• Hybrid work environment (in office on Tuesday and Thursday) with occasional evening, weekend events, or deadlines
• Some local travel to school sites and community meetings is required

About the IPS Foundation

The IPS Foundation (IPSF) is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization that serves as the philanthropic arm of the Indianapolis Public School District. IPSF partners with the Indianapolis Public School District to ensure all students have the resources and support they need to pursue their dreams with purpose.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about driving successful grant projects and making a difference in public education, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.