Proposal Development Manager

Join the faculty and staff of Howard University as a Proposal Development Manager to advance the institution’s research mission.

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance plus mental‑health support
• PTO, paid holidays and flexible work arrangements for work‑life balance
• Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match for financial wellness
• Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement and career advancement paths for professional development
• Wellness programs, commuter benefits and a vibrant campus culture

The Proposal Development Manager assists faculty in the preparation of competitive grant and contract proposals, providing individual advising, editing and proofreading services, and coaching faculty on federal and non‑federal funding opportunities. The role coordinates proposals across teams and mentors investigators to respond to sponsor guidelines and institutional priorities.

• Work with individuals at all levels in the proposal development process (e.g., research development staff, sponsored research administrators, grant staff) to ensure the successful integration of all grant application components and full compliance with all funding program and sponsor requirements.
• Contribute to targeted funding opportunity dissemination.
• Ensure that goals and objectives specified for the funding opportunity are accomplished in accordance with priorities, time and funding limitations, or other specifications.
• Develop templates and guidance for proposal materials based on sponsor guidelines and solicitation instructions.
• Convene strategic interdisciplinary teams to pursue grant and contract opportunities, maintaining information on proposal preparation requirements for federal, state, local sponsors, private foundations and industry partners.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Extensive knowledge of federal and non‑federal sponsors supporting research and education activities, preferably in a university environment.
• Excellent critical‑thinking, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a time‑sensitive, complex caseload.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize large amounts of data.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills for building consensus and leading teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and related software.
• Effective oral and written communication with faculty, staff, students and customers.
• Planning, organizational and coordination abilities.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is required. A Master’s degree is preferred. Minimum five years of relevant experience (with at least four years on a high‑functioning research development team) and strong experience in higher education, foundation or federal funding agencies are strongly preferred.

$80,000 – $90,000 per year.