Freelance Grant Prospect Researcher & Writer (STEM Education Nonprofit)

About ARCS Foundation:

The ARCS Foundation (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists) advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding students in STEM and biomedical fields. The San Diego Chapter partners with leading research institutions to support the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven freelance professional to help expand our foundation funding pipeline. This role will focus primarily on identifying new private foundation prospects aligned with our mission and assisting in the preparation of grant proposals for selected opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and identify prospective private foundations supporting STEM education, scientific and medical research, and related fields.
• Evaluate and recommend funding opportunities aligned with ARCS’ mission and programs.
• Prepare concise prospect profiles, including funding priorities, typical award amounts, application requirements, and deadlines.
• Provide links to source materials and, when available, key contacts.
• Draft or assist in preparing grant proposals for selected opportunities, in collaboration with ARCS leadership and volunteer grant writers.

Time Commitment & Compensation:

• Approximately 2 hours per prospect research assignment
• Additional hours for proposal development on an as-needed basis
• Flexible, project-based engagement with potential for ongoing work
• Compensation: Up to $50/hour, depending on experience

Qualifications:

• Experience in grant prospect research, nonprofit development, or fundraising strategy
• Demonstrated success in writing grant proposals, particularly for private foundations
• Familiarity with STEM, higher education, and scientific research funding preferred
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and deliver clear, actionable recommendations

How to Apply:

Please submit a brief cover letter describing your relevant experience, along with 1–2 writing samples (grant proposals or prospect research summaries preferred).

This freelance, project-based role offers a flexible remote work arrangement, allowing you to contribute on your own schedule while engaging in meaningful, mission-driven work that supports STEM education and scientific advancement. You will have the opportunity to apply and deepen your expertise in grant prospect research and proposal development within the nonprofit sector, while working closely with experienced volunteer leaders and development professionals. The position provides competitive hourly compensation of up to $50/hour, depending on experience, with the potential for ongoing assignments based on performance and organizational needs. Additionally, you will gain exposure to a network of leading research institutions and private foundations supporting cutting-edge science and biomedical innovation.

This role requires a strong command of the English language, both spoken and written. The ideal candidate will be able to communicate clearly and professionally in English across verbal interactions, written correspondence, and document preparation. Strong writing skills, including the ability to draft and edit content for accuracy, clarity, and tone, are essential.