Job Information
The Salvation Army Short-Term Proposal Writer in Happy Valley, Oregon
Description
The Salvation Army Cascade Division
Job Title: Short-Term Proposal WriterDepartment: Social ServicesLocation: Portland Metro AreaReports To: Divisional Social Services DirectorEmployment Status: Temporary, Contract-BasedDuration: Approximately 60 DaysTarget Start Date: March 20, 2025
POSITION SUMMARY
The Salvation Army Cascade Division is seeking a Short-Term Proposal Writer with expertise in energy conservation, sustainability, and climate-focused projects to support the Social Services Department in developing two full grant proposals for the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF). This position is temporary, with an estimated duration of 60 days, and requires a self-driven professional who can work independently, meet tight deadlines, and craft compelling grant proposals aligned with PCEF’s climate justice and community equity priorities.
The successful candidate will possess a strong background in clean energy, energy efficiency, or environmental sustainability, with an emphasis on equity-focused program development. Prior experience working with nonprofits is a plus.
This role requires the ability to travel independently to visit project sites across Portland and collaborate with key stakeholders, including community partners, program directors, and subject matter experts.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Research, develop, and write two high-quality and strategic grant proposals tailored to the PCEF Community Grant opportunity.
Analyze RFP requirements and develop a proposal framework that aligns with The Salvation Army’s mission, services, and capacity to execute clean energy and sustainability projects.
Collaborate with program leaders, finance teams, and community partners to gather data, define project outcomes, and craft compelling narratives that highlight climate action, energy conservation, and equity-driven services.
Develop clear, persuasive, and outcome-focused proposals that integrate GHG reduction strategies, workforce development, and sustainability initiatives.
Ensure compliance with grant guidelines, including budget restrictions, eligibility criteria, and reporting requirements.
Work closely with project managers to define measurable impacts, implementation strategies, and program sustainability plans.
Translate technical concepts related to renewable energy, green infrastructure, and workforce training into accessible, engaging content.
Identify and incorporate PCEF priority populations (e.g., low-income residents, communities of color, individuals with disabilities) into proposal strategies.
Develop supporting materials such as logic models, project timelines, and financial projections.
Ensure proposals are submitted on time and meet all required technical and formatting guidelines.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience:
Minimum 3–5 years of professional experience in grant writing, proposal development, or technical writing, preferably in clean energy, energy conservation, environmental sustainability, or nonprofit sectors.
Demonstrated success in securing funding for energy efficiency, workforce development, or sustainability-related programs.
Experience working with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or community-based projects is preferred.
Skills & Competencies:
Strong understanding of climate action strategies, GHG/net zero initiatives, and environmental justice principles.
Ability to synthesize complex information from multiple sources and develop persuasive, data-driven proposals.
Knowledge of grant budgeting, program design, and evaluation methodologies.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into compelling narratives.
Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and able to work independently under tight timelines.
Strong research skills, with the ability to identify relevant data, case studies, and evidence-based practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with grant management platforms.
Other Requirements:
Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to conduct site visits within the Portland Metro Area.
Must be able to pass The Salvation Army’s background check requirements.
Willingness to adhere to The Salvation Army’s values and mission while working on climate-related initiatives.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This is a temporary, project-based contract with remote and in-person work requirements.
The candidate will need to attend site visits, interview key personnel, and coordinate with internal teams.
Work hours are flexible, but proposals must be delivered within the agreed-upon timeline.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit:
A cover letter outlining relevant experience in energy conservation, climate justice, and nonprofit grant writing.
A resume highlighting grant success and proposal writing expertise.
At least two samples of previously funded grant proposals (preferred).
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early submissions are encouraged.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)