Campaign Writer [California Science Center]

The Campaign Writer is part of a dynamic team that advances California Science Center Foundation Campaign initiatives, now focused on EndeavourLA, a $250 million fundraising effort for the creation of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, Space Shuttle Endeavour’s permanent home. The ideal candidate is a prolific writer who can create accurate and engaging fundraising materials with ease and adapt copy to fit various contexts and audiences. Strong organizational skills and a keen ability to balance multiple tasks and deadlines are also required. The Campaign Writer is responsible for writing compelling grant proposals, major gift solicitation materials, letters and other communications to advance the EndeavourLA Campaign and Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center project. The position is also responsible for tracking and fulfilling grant reporting requirements; identifying, researching and profiling prospective donors; and contributing to administrative and information management activities as needed.

Major Job Responsibilities:

Writing and Research

• Create and update materials for the Campaign information kit and write a range of correspondence including personalized acknowledgement letters and project updates.
• Prepare letters of inquiry, proposals, and narrative and financial reports in support of the Campaign and the California Science Center. This includes liaising with various departments and project staff to ensure the information provided is accurate and up-to-date.
• Develop and maintain Campaign and project content for the Science Center website, social media and e-newsletters.
• Research prospective donors and prepare profiles and briefings for staff and volunteers.
• Stay on top of philanthropy-related news and events to identify new prospective donors and updates.

Administration

• Maintain a grant docket and other systems to track proposal and reporting schedules, keeping project staff apprised of information needs, milestones and deadlines, to ensure timely fulfillment of grant requirements.
• Maintain digital and non-digital files for Campaign donor/prospect information and materials.
• Assist with tracking and coding Campaign contacts and actions in Raiser’s Edge as well as generating mailing lists for communications.
• Assist with cultivation, solicitation and stewardship meetings and events as needed.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of systems and procedures for the effective operation of the Campaign.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
• 3+ years in grant writing experience.
• Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to write persuasive and concise text.
• Strong communication skills.
• Experience developing and delivering public presentations.
• Extensive knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, database programs and Internet research.
• Strong organizational, analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with donors, volunteers and staff across departments.
•  Highly motivated, self-starter and with excellent follow-through skills.
• Ability to interpret budgets and financial reports and to convey information in narrative form as well as numerically.