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Freelance Foundation Program Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cultivate and steward relationships with foundation program officers, philanthropic advisors, and institutional partners. * Develop and submit compelling letters of inquiry, grant proposals, concept ...

Program Officer - SW

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$80K - $85K/yr

Ideally, you have prior experience in foundation work, grants administration and/or social welfare ... Our target salary range for the Social Welfare Program Officer in the New York City market is $80 ...

Cultivate and steward relationships with foundation program officers, philanthropic advisors, and institutional partners. * Develop and submit compelling letters of inquiry, grant proposals, concept ...

Program Officer - SW

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Ideally, you have prior experience in foundation work, grants administration and/or social welfare ... Our target salary range for the Social Welfare Program Officer in the New York City market is $80 ...

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Freelance Foundation Program Officer information

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$33.5K

$100.4K

$155.5K

How much do freelance foundation program officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance foundation program officer in the United States is $100,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the salary expectations in philanthropy?

For a Freelance Foundation Program Officer, salary expectations vary based on experience, location, and project scope, but typically range from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Freelance roles may also be paid hourly or per project, with rates often between $25 and $75 per hour depending on expertise and organization size.

What are Freelance Foundation Program Officers?

Freelance Foundation Program Officers are independent professionals who work with foundations or non-profit organizations to design, manage, and evaluate grant programs or initiatives. Unlike permanent staff, they are hired on a contract or project basis, often bringing specialized expertise to help foundations achieve their goals. Their responsibilities may include reviewing grant proposals, monitoring project progress, and ensuring compliance with funding guidelines. This role offers flexibility for both the professional and the organization, making it ideal for short-term projects or when specialized knowledge is needed.

What is the difference between Freelance Foundation Program Officer vs Freelance Grant Coordinator?

AspectFreelance Foundation Program OfficerFreelance Grant Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in nonprofit program management, knowledge of foundation fundingExperience in grant administration, familiarity with funding processes
Work EnvironmentTypically works independently or with nonprofit teams, often remotelyWorks closely with grant applicants and organizations, often remotely
Employer & IndustryFoundations, nonprofits, philanthropic organizationsNonprofits, grant-making agencies, philanthropic entities

The Freelance Foundation Program Officer focuses on managing and developing foundation programs, while the Freelance Grant Coordinator primarily handles the administration and processing of grants. Both roles require knowledge of nonprofit funding and often operate remotely, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Do foundations hire people without experience?

Foundation Program Officer roles typically prefer candidates with relevant experience in nonprofit work, project management, or grant administration. However, some foundations may consider entry-level applicants who demonstrate strong skills, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn, especially if they have related education or volunteer experience.

What is a foundation officer?

A foundation officer is a professional responsible for managing and implementing the programs and grants of a charitable foundation. They oversee project development, evaluate proposals, and ensure alignment with the foundation's mission, often requiring skills in grant writing, project management, and stakeholder communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Foundation Program Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Foundation Program Officer, you need expertise in grant management, program evaluation, and a strong understanding of nonprofit operations, often supported by a relevant degree such as in public administration or social sciences. Familiarity with grant management software, data analysis tools, and reporting systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, organizational skills, and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders help set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for effectively managing funding programs, ensuring compliance, and achieving meaningful impact within philanthropic initiatives.

What does a program officer do at a foundation?

A program officer at a foundation manages and oversees grant programs, evaluates proposals, and monitors funded projects to ensure alignment with the foundation's goals. They often collaborate with stakeholders, conduct site visits, and prepare reports, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

How does a Freelance Foundation Program Officer typically manage multiple projects across different organizations?

As a Freelance Foundation Program Officer, you will often juggle projects for several clients simultaneously, which requires excellent time management and organizational skills. Effective communication is crucial, as you'll regularly coordinate with diverse stakeholders—such as grantees, internal staff, and external partners—to ensure program goals are met. Using project management tools and setting clear expectations with each client helps maintain transparency and keep deliverables on track. Adapting quickly to varying foundation cultures and reporting requirements is a common challenge, but it also provides opportunities to expand your network and build a versatile portfolio.
More about Freelance Foundation Program Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Foundation Program Officer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Foundation Program Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Foundation Program Officer jobs? The most popular types of Foundation Program Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Foundation Program Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Foundation Program Officer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Foundation Program Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,365 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Major Gift Officer, Foundation Giving

Major Gift Officer, Foundation Giving

SBP

New Orleans, LA • On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

About SBP

SBP is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities shrink the time between disaster and recovery. We take a holistic approach to disasters by increasing readiness and resilience before they happen, and streamlining rebuilding and long-term recovery after.

  • Building the Way Home for Disaster Survivors: SBP serves the most vulnerable homeowners in a community impacted by a major disaster through its Recovery Services. These services are currently offered in eight states across the Gulf South, where the risk of major natural disasters is greatest.
  • Building Readiness and Resilience Through Local Partnership: SBP supports low-capacity, high-risk communities through its Advisory Services, providing training, consulting, and organizational capacity-building through a team of subject-matter experts and Resilience Fellows.

Joining SBP is more than just joining a workforce. It's about contributing to a mission where you can enact real change and make a difference in the lives of people impacted by disasters.


Position Summary:  

The Major Gifts Officer, Foundation Giving will serve as a frontline fundraiser responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding institutional foundation partners in support of SBP's mission and strategic growth priorities. Reporting to the Director of Institutional Giving, this role will focus heavily on new business development and expanding SBP's network of philanthropic foundation supporters at regional and national levels.

This position requires a highly strategic and externally focused fundraiser who can identify alignment between SBP's impact areas and foundation funding priorities, develop compelling cases for support, and build long-term philanthropic partnerships that advance disaster resilience, recovery, preparedness, and systems change. The Major Gifts Officer will work collaboratively across departments to translate organizational priorities and programmatic outcomes into competitive funding opportunities and meaningful funder engagement.

Requirements

Foundation Fundraising & New Business Development

  • Manage and grow a portfolio of institutional foundation donors and prospects to achieve annual fundraising goals.
  • Lead proactive prospecting efforts to identify new foundation funding opportunities aligned with SBP's strategic priorities and impact areas.
  • Research and analyze foundation priorities, funding trends, and philanthropic strategies to build a strong pipeline of prospective funders.
  • Cultivate and steward relationships with foundation program officers, philanthropic advisors, and institutional partners.
  • Develop and submit compelling letters of inquiry, grant proposals, concept papers, presentations, and stewardship reports tailored to foundation audiences.
  • Partner with organizational leadership to secure multi-year and transformational philanthropic investments.

Strategy and Collaboration

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with programs, finance, and executive leadership teams to identify funding opportunities and develop high-quality proposals and impact narratives.
  • Help shape compelling cases for support that align organizational initiatives with foundation priorities and emerging philanthropic trends.
  • Ensure timely stewardship, reporting, and relationship management for foundation partners.

Pipeline Development & Portfolio Management

  • Maintain a robust pipeline of new and existing foundation prospects and donors..
  • Track donor engagement activity, proposal submissions, deadlines, and revenue forecasting within the CRM system.
  • Monitor progress toward fundraising goals and regularly report on portfolio activity and pipeline development.
  • Stay informed on trends in philanthropy, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, housing, and community development to identify emerging funding opportunities.
  • Support leadership engagement with institutional funders through briefing materials, meeting preparation, and follow-up strategies.

Other Duties as Assigned

Requirements and Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.


Work Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of fundraising, grant writing, institutional giving, or related experience. Demonstrated success by securing foundation grants and managing institutional donor relationships.  Strong experience with prospect research, proposal development, and new business pipeline building.


Technical Skills and Proficiency: Hands-on experience with CRMs, such as Salesforce or Raiser's Edge


Core Competencies (Soft Skills): Exceptional written communication and storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex programs and impact into compelling funding narratives. Strong strategic thinking and relationship-building abilities. Highly organized with strong project management and deadline management skills.  Ability to collaborate effectively across teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.


Special Requirements: SBP Standard - Mandatory checks (e.g., criminal background, drug screening) with the ability to pass a criminal history check to include National Sex Offender Registry, State, and FBI/; US Citizen or ability to work in the United States.


Salary range:  $73,000 - $100,000


SBP is building a team from a broad range of backgrounds. 

We love fresh perspectives and we know our teams grow stronger when they include different experiences. We adhere to all relevant employment laws and never discriminate in our hiring. By welcoming people from varied backgrounds, we spark new ideas and are better prepared to support the communities we serve.


SBP is an equal opportunity employer.

We are an equal opportunity employer.  All applicants will be considered without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law.