What are the responsibilities and job description for the Grant Writer position at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle TN, Inc?
We are hiring for a full-time Grant Writer to join the External Affairs Department at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
Who we are: For nearly 50 years, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee has dedicated itself to nourishing and empowering their neighbors so they can thrive. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Second Harvest implements sustainable solutions to food insecurity through a strategically selected network of more than 600 partners across 46 counties in Middle and West Tennessee. Our partners include food pantries, congregate meal sites, shelters, childcare facilities, senior centers, group homes, and youth enrichment programs. For more information about Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, its mission, and programs, please visit secondharvestmidtn.org.
What you’ll do: The Grant Writer is responsible for developing and submitting compelling grant proposals and progress reports, while responding to funder requests and maintaining strong relationships with grant-making institutions. This role requires thorough research of prospective funding sources—corporate, foundation, government, and other institutional entities—and close collaboration with internal staff to align funding opportunities with program needs. The Grant Writer actively supports and contributes to the organization’s strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of belonging for all.
Key Responsibilities:
- Write and submit grant proposals in accordance with funder guidelines, incorporating input from relevant program and leadership staff.
- Draft and submit timely grant reports, ensuring accuracy and inclusion of all required supporting documentation. Maintain a strong understanding of hunger-related issues in Middle and West Tennessee and remain well-informed on the organization’s programs and services.
- Identify and research new grant opportunities from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and other institutional funders.
- Build and nurture relationships with internal teams to stay current on funding priorities, programmatic developments, and strategic plans.
- Review and provide feedback on grant proposals developed by other team members.
- Engage with funders to build and sustain positive relationships and address information requests promptly.
- Organize and maintain detailed records of proposals, reports, communications, deadlines, and funding history using the organization’s grant management system.
- Attend relevant external meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities to stay informed on funding trends and best practices.
- Effectively manage multiple grant deadlines simultaneously while coordinating with cross-functional teams.
- Support the ongoing maintenance and optimization of the grants calendar, including application timelines, reporting deadlines, and compliance requirements.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Reports to: Director, Development Operations
When & Where:
SCHEDULE
- Typical daytime workweek hours of Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM on-site and primarily at our Nashville distribution center. This position is eligible for consideration for our WorkFlex program.
TRAVEL
- Occasional daytime travel required, up to 5% of work week within the local service area, and to and from the Main Distribution Center in Nashville, Tennessee as needed. Current driver’s license with copy of current auto insurance and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) results required.
Essential business/first responder
In instances of a federal, state or locally declared emergency, Second Harvest is typically considered an essential business service and emergency responder. All employees may be required to perform regular or emergent duties on-site. Employee safety will be balanced with business and community necessity. Some positions are more likely to be required on-site than others.
Is this you?
Education: Bachelor’s Degree required, preferred fields include Business, Sales, Fundraising, Communications or
Marketing
Marketing
Experience: 2 years of related experience and/or training. At the organization's discretion, a combination of education, experience, and/or training may be considered in lieu of the stated requirements.
Skills & Capabilities:
- Exceptional written communication skills with an emphasis on clarity, technical accuracy, and persuasive storytelling.
- Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to incorporate feedback effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and strong data analysis skills.
- Experience working with grant management platforms such as Instrumentl, Raiser’s Edge/NXT, and Salesforce.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to interpret and develop budgets and analyze statistical data.
- Demonstrated success working cross-functionally with diverse teams.
- Proficiency with AI tools is a plus.
What Second Harvest has to offer:
- Work with a purpose: As one of Middle Tennessee’s largest nonprofits, our local hunger relief work is uniquely rewarding, hands on and solutions oriented. Our mission is to nourish and empower people so they can thrive. A career with Second Harvest ensures that you not only earn a paycheck but also help your local community through meaningful work.
- Award winning workplace: We are a best-in-class workplace because we are passionate and people focused, so that our community can count on us for our critical work. We are among The Tennessean’s Top Workplaces based solely on employee feedback.
- Compensation & Benefits: Second Harvest is proud to offer rich and affordable total compensation packages. Total compensation for full-time employment includes many benefits, in addition to base pay. The paid days off policies include 34 accrued time off. Benefits offered include medical, dental and vision (employee-only coverage paid 100% by employer). Additional available benefits include a 403(b)-retirement plan (up to 3% match, 5% base), disability insurance (short and long-term), life insurance as well as pet insurance.
- Equal Employment Opportunity: Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. We believe that inclusion and belonging strengthen our team, drive innovation, and enhance our ability to serve our community.
Think this sounds like a role and workplace where you would thrive? Apply now!
You can express interest in joining our team, in any of the following ways:
You can express interest in joining our team, in any of the following ways:
- Online: employment application on our website: secondharvestmidtn.org/job-opportunities. Resume and cover letter can be uploaded with applications on the website as well.
- In person: applications can be completed by visiting us on-site at any of our distribution centers, locations can be found on our website: secondharvestmidtn.org/contact.
Thanks for your interest in working for Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee - we love it here and think you will too!
