Grants and Programs Associate

Are you looking for a job where you can learn, grow, and make a difference? The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is accepting candidates to fill the open Grants and Programs Associate position. This is a full-time, hybrid role based in Arlington, VA.

OAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to apply research to the challenges of autism. OAR improves lives by funding applied research, awarding scholarships, and delivering educational resources.

In this role, the Grants and Programs Associate will manage grant programs and reporting processes while supporting OAR’s broader programs through content development, communications, and stakeholder coordination. The Associate reports to the Senior Director of Research and Programs and works alongside the Senior Associate of Community Impact to publish OAR’s monthly newsletter, distribute evidence-based resources, and host webinars.

This role requires strong organizational and time management skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex processes with accuracy and accountability.

If you are interested in making a positive impact on the autism community, then this role is for you!

Responsibilities:

• Manage OAR’s research and resource grant programs, including:
  • Coordinate application and review workflows across staff, applicants, reviewers, and scientific council members
  • Ensure compliance with application, administrative, funding, and reporting requirements
  • Develop and maintain grant tracking systems for post-award activities
  • Maintain OAR’s online content, including the research opportunities listings, research portal, and Operation Autism website.
• In collaboration with the programs team:
  • Disseminate news, research, and education to the community through OAR’s webinars, monthly newsletter, and social media channels.
  • Serve on OAR’s editorial team to plan, coordinate, and publish articles for OAR’smonthly newsletter.
  • Pilot new grant and program initiatives, as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Excellent organizational and project management skills (ability to manage multiple timelines and stakeholders, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (ability to produce clear, concise summaries and thoughtfully tailor communications to diverse audiences)
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail (ability to interpret guidelines and produce accurate, polished work)

Desirable Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of relevant experience (e.g., education, psychology, non-profit, project management, grant/contract administration, research coordination, policy analysis, disability services)
• Demonstrated ability to manage detailed work with accuracy and follow-through, such as project management or data tracking/reporting experience
• Working knowledge or relevant experience with autism
• Familiarity with Microsoft 365, WordPress, MailChimp, Monday.com, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, and grant management systems such as SurveyMonkey Apply

The ideal candidate:

• Has an enthusiasm and commitment to excellence, with a strong sense of ownership to produce high-quality, accurate outputs
• Enjoys structured, process-driven work involving compliance and coordination
• Has the ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and collaborate in a small, high-performing team
• Has a strong interest in research and desire to serve the disability community
• Is comfortable engaging with diverse stakeholders (e.g. autistic individuals, researchers, educators, and families)

● Hybrid office-telework schedule

● Daily flexible start time

● Medical, vision, and dental plans

● 401k with matching after 6 months

● 12 annual vacation days, 12 annual sick days

● Paid parking or equal metro fare offset

● Tuition assistance and professional development

Fluent English required