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Grants Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Start Early

Associate, Private Grants

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58K - $66K/yr

The Associate, Private Grants plays a critical role in developing accurate, strategic, and compliant budgets for grant proposals and funding opportunities. Serving as a key liaison among Financial ...

START EARLY

Associate, Private Grants

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58K - $66K/yr

The Associate, Private Grants plays a critical role in developing accurate, strategic, and compliant budgets for grant proposals and funding opportunities. Serving as a key liaison among Financial ...

Build Inc

Grants Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Grants Accountant (GA) (40 hours, Full-time) Exempt BUILD, Inc. (Broader Urban Involvement and ... Bachelor's/Associate's degree in accounting, finance or related field of study. * At least 2 years ...

Build, Inc.

Grants Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Grants Accountant (GA) (40 hours, Full-time) Exempt BUILD, Inc ... Bachelor's/Associate's degree in accounting, finance or related field of study. * At least 2 years ...

Build Inc

Grants Accountant

Chicago, IL

$62K - $65K/yr

Description Grants Accountant (GA) (40 hours, Full-time) Exempt BUILD, Inc. (Broader Urban ... Bachelor's/Associate's degree in accounting, finance or related field of study. * At least 2 years ...

City of Chicago

POLICE CADET

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60/hr

... grants associate and bachelor's degrees Licensure, Certification, or Other Qualifications • Individuals selected for the program must maintain an academic schedule of a minimum of 20 semester hours ...

Jobot

Corporate Associate Attorney - REMOTE

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$150K - $170K/yr

... Associate Attorney to join their Corporate group based out of Southern California! The Corporate ... Employee Incentive or Synthetic Incentive Plans and Grants. * Experience with intellectual property ...

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All JobsGrants Associate JobsGrants Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Grants Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$145.6K

$320.1K

How much do grants associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for grants associate in Chicago, IL is $145,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $219,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grants associate?

Grants Associates are professionals who support organizations in securing and managing funding from grants. They typically assist with researching grant opportunities, preparing and submitting grant proposals, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements. Additionally, they may help track deadlines, manage budgets, and report on the outcomes of grant-funded projects. Their work is vital for nonprofits, educational institutions, and other organizations that rely on external funding to achieve their missions.

How does a grants associate typically collaborate with program teams and external partners during the grant application process?

A Grants Associate works closely with program teams to gather necessary project information, budgets, and measurable outcomes required for compelling grant proposals. They often coordinate meetings and facilitate communication to ensure all stakeholders are aligned on objectives and deadlines. Externally, Grants Associates may interact with funders or partner organizations to clarify application requirements and build relationships for future opportunities. This collaborative approach ensures proposals are accurate, competitive, and in line with organizational priorities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grants associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grants Associate, you need strong research, writing, and organizational skills, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management or communications. Familiarity with grant management software, databases, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are typically required, along with knowledge of funder guidelines. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to collaborate effectively are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate grant applications, compliance with deadlines, and successful fundraising for organizational missions.

What is the difference between Grants Associate vs Grants Coordinator?

AspectGrants AssociateGrants Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in grants or nonprofit workBachelor's degree, experience in grants management or nonprofit sector
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, supporting grant applications and reportingOffice setting, overseeing grant processes and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, educational institutions, government agenciesNonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Grants Associate and a Grants Coordinator lies in their scope of responsibilities. Grants Associates typically support grant applications and reporting, focusing on assisting with documentation and research. Grants Coordinators often oversee the entire grants process, ensuring compliance and managing relationships with funders. Both roles require similar credentials and are common in nonprofit and government sectors, but the Coordinator role usually involves more oversight and coordination tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Grants jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Grants jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Grants Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Grants Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grants Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Grants Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Grants Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Grants Associate job openings:

Grants Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grants Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,580 per year, or $70 per hour.

Associate, Private Grants

Start Early

Chicago, IL • On-site

$58K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Start Early is a champion for early learning and care from a child's very first moments, so every child has the opportunity to thrive in school and life. Our desire to close the opportunity gap and create more inclusive experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy, and research through partnerships nationwide.
We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a commitment to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning and communication. Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven culture! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do.
The Associate, Private Grants plays a critical role in developing accurate, strategic, and compliant budgets for grant proposals and funding opportunities. Serving as a key liaison among Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), Program, Research, Policy, Development, and accounting teams, this position ensures alignment between programmatic goals, organizational priorities, and funder requirements. Through strong cross-functional collaboration, the Grants Associate leads the timely preparation, review, and oversight of proposal budgets, ensuring financial accuracy, consistency, and compliance throughout the grant lifecycle. This role supports sound financial planning, strengthens organizational accountability, and promotes effective stewardship of grant resources. By providing financial expertise and fostering collaborative partnerships across departments, the Grants Associate directly contributes to Start Early's mission and the successful advancement of its funding initiatives.
Reporting to the Assistant Director, Private Grants, you will:
Grant/Proposal Budget Development & Support:
• Partner with Program, Research, Policy and Development teams to prepare and submit detailed, funder-compliant budgets and proposals for all private funding opportunities and divisions.
• Provide strategic financial guidance during proposal development, ensuring budgets reflect realistic program delivery and align with organizational goals.
Budget Monitoring & Financial Tracking:
• Maintain accurate grant budget records within Awards Managment (grant management system), ensuring timely updates and system integrity.
• Collaborate with Accounting to reconcile pledges and received private funds, providing accurate reporting on the financial status of awards.
• Ensure adherence to internal policies, funder requirements, and applicable regulations in all aspects of grant budget preparation.
Training & Capacity Building:
• Support onboarding of new team members and deliver financial training sessions (group, individual, or recorded) to strengthen organizational knowledge of grant budgeting and compliance.
• Serve as a resource for staff in navigating financial systems, processes, and reporting requirements.
Cross-Functional Financial Partnership:
• Act as a financial partner to internal teams, advising on resource allocation, budget compliance, and allowable costs.
• Support leadership and program staff in interpreting funder requirements, aligning spending with budgets, and maintaining compliance throughout the grant lifecycle.
• Foster collaborative, solutions-oriented relationships across Finance, Development, and Program teams to strengthen grant management processes.
Other Duties:
• Contribute to process improvements, system enhancements, and cross-departmental initiatives as assigned.
Provide back-up support for other Finance or Development functions as needed.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in related field or minimum 3 years of related experience in grant and contract administration
  • Proficient in grant budgeting, financial monitoring, and analysis for private funding.
  • Experience with financial systems (e.g., Awards Management and a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, including GAAP and revenue recognition.
  • Strong data analysis skills with attention to detail.
  • Effective time management, ability to handle multiple deadlines across teams and funding cycles and incoming last minute funder requests.
  • Skilled at cross-functional collaboration with internal teams (Program, Policy, Development, FP&A, Accounting).
  • Clear written, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills, particularly in grant proposals.
  • Capable of supporting onboarding and leading financial training sessions.
  • Capable of working in a fast-paced, changing environment.
  • Ability to work independently or with a team.

Base Annual Salary: $58,800-$66,700
As of the time of this posting, this is the expected base annual salary range. The base annual salary will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, as well as business needs and limitations.
Our generous benefits plan includes: Comprehensive Health Plans, Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion, Holistic Wellness Program, Professional Development Program, 401k Contribution, Paid Volunteer Days, 6 months paid parental leave, and much more.
Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to our core values by creating an inclusive environment for all staff.

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