60059000 - AG-STRATEGIC FUNDING

Updated: about 2 months ago
Location: Gainesville, FLORIDA
Deadline: 06 Mar 2024

Classification Title:

Technical Writer

Job Description:

Grant Proposal Writing: The Technical Writer conducts thorough research on potential funding sources, tailors each proposal to meet specific donor preferences, and maintains a strategic approach to prioritize opportunities. There is a continuous process of drafting, revising, and finalizing proposals, often under tight deadlines, to maximize the chances of funding success.

Extension Program Reporting: The Technical Writer takes the lead in writing progress reports required by grant agencies. This role involves extensive efforts to gather specific information from Extension Faculty who are directly involved in the work. The writer is responsible for coordinating with Management Analyst and Business Intelligence Analyst to schedule and facilitate progress report meetings. In these reports, the writer not only compiles analyzed data but also crafts a narrative that showcases the achievements and progress of the Extension programs, ensuring that all reporting aligns with the requirements and expectations of the funding agencies.

Technical Documentation In this role, the Technical Writer is responsible for creating and updating various Extension documents, working closely with Extension’s Director of Business Intelligence and Strategic Communication Lead on all communications-related content. This includes crafting engaging infographics, maintaining MS Teams page content in collaboration with PDEC personnel, and developing communications about changes to Initiatives, PWGs, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and outcomes and impacts. For documents specific to Initiatives, PWGs, and Plans of Action (POAs), the writer collaborates directly with the Management Analyst and Initiative Team Leadership, ensuring that all technical documentation aligns with the strategic goals and accurately reflects the Initiatives' intended outcomes and impacts.
Grant Calendar Management: A crucial part of the role now includes creating and maintaining a comprehensive 365-day grant calendar. This calendar tracks opportunities and requirements from various funding agencies, ensuring timely preparation and submission of proposals. It involves researching grant cycles, understanding eligibility criteria, and keeping the Director of Business Intelligence, Management Analyst, and Business Intelligence Analyst informed about upcoming deadlines and requirements. This strategic planning tool is essential for maximizing funding opportunities and ensuring a steady stream of continued support for the AI/BI Initiative within Extension.
Collaboration and Coordination: The Technical Writer is deeply engaged in Extension Initiative planning, actively participating in meetings, workshops, and strategy sessions with the Extension Administrative Team and Extension’s Strategic Communication Lead. This involvement is crucial for understanding the nuances of each program, which informs the identification and application for grants that align closely with AI/BI programmatic needs. This active participation is key to capturing the essence of the programs and leveraging this understanding in grant writing. Additionally, by serving as a bridge between these teams, the writer ensures that communications around awards selected for funding is clear, aligned, and effectively supports the strategic communication goals of the respective Extension programs.  

Expected Salary:

$45605

https://hr.ifas.ufl.edu/benefits/

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area; or an associate’s degree and two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in appropriate area of specialization and four years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Academic background and experience in selected area of research required, or other applicable academic field as evidenced by an advanced degree in a related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education.

Experience working in scientific research and/or extension environment. Understanding of the role of research and grant funding in a major research university.

Strong oral and written communication skills. In-depth experience writing about science for both technical reviewers and the public as well as writing science proposals for government agencies.

Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple projects. Ability to complete work and meet established deadlines in an accurate and timely manner, and to manage short and competing deadlines.

Strong ability to think creatively and independently on concepts requiring advanced analytical skills.

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups to achieve results. Strong ability to work collaboratively with internal and external peers, managers, and teams.

Demonstrated attention to detail to ensure proper and consistent editorial formatting of large grant submissions. Self-starter with the ability to work independently and deliver in a timely fashion. 

Special Instructions to Applicants:

SUPERVISION

Instruction is given as needed by their immediate supervisor.

NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with occasional overtime and/or weekend work based on project needs.

COMMUNICATION

The Technical Writer is integral to Extension's communication strategy, working in lockstep with the Extension Strategic Communication Lead to craft compelling grant proposals and progress reports. Their collaborative efforts focus on clearly communicating the value and impact of Extension programs, ensuring that documentation aligns with strategic communication objectives and enhances program visibility among funding agencies.

STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONFIDENTIAL DATA.

In the role of a Technical Writer, the individual is entrusted with the responsibility of handling sensitive and confidential data with the utmost discretion. This includes safeguarding personal information, proprietary data, and unpublished research findings, ensuring such information is only disclosed to authorized personnel in accordance with legal and ethical standards. The writer must also comply with data privacy laws and organizational policies regarding the management and security of confidential information. 

CREATIVITY, STRATEGY AND LEADERSHIP.

The Technical Writer is expected to demonstrate creativity in presenting complex Extension information in an engaging and accessible manner. Strategic thinking is essential for aligning communication efforts with the broader goals of Extension programs, and leadership qualities are required to guide project teams in delivering clear, impactful narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders and funding bodies.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No