Research And Development Intern Jobs in California

JOB TITLE: Grant/Development Intern

REPORTS TO: Grant Manager

SCHEDULE: Varies

LOCATION: Pasadena, CA (Hybrid)

STATUS: Intern – College Course Credit – 20 hours (Approx.)

DRIVER POSITION: Yes [ If yes, see driving policy below]

SALARY RANGE: College Credit 

ABOUT US

At AbilityFirst, we are dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve their personal best. Our mission is to look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. AbilityFirst programs are person-centered and tailored to individual interests and needs. They are grounded in individual choice, autonomy, community participation, with a focus on creating social connections and a sense of belonging. We are currently seeking a Grant Department Intern who is excited to gain hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising to carry out the mission of AbilityFirst.

ABOUT THE ROLE

AbilityFirst’s Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in nonprofit fundraising and development. The Grant Department Intern will support the Development Team by assisting with research, prospecting, data entry, and preparation of materials for grant proposals and reports. Interns will learn how corporate, foundation, and government funding contribute to the mission and impact of AbilityFirst.

This internship is ideal for students pursuing degrees in English, Communications, Journalism, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Business, Marketing, Social Work, Sociology, or Psychology who are interested in exploring careers in grant writing, fundraising, or the nonprofit sector. Interns will gain exposure to the full grant cycle—from prospect research to reporting—while collaborating with the Development Team in a supportive learning environment.

Ideal candidates are curious, detail-oriented, and strong writers. They are eager to learn, demonstrate a professional demeanor, and enjoy working collaboratively. This internship offers meaningful professional development for students seeking to strengthen their writing, research, and organizational skills while contributing to AbilityFirst’s mission of looking beyond disabilities and focusing on capabilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with research on prospective foundation, corporate, and government funding opportunities. Analyzes grant information from grantors and identifies where AbilityFirst needs and grantors’ goals match.
• Develops a comprehensive working knowledge of the types of funding (program-specific and general operating funds) available to AbilityFirst from corporations, foundations and government agencies.
• Support preparation of grant proposals and reports by gathering information and drafting sections under supervision. Gather program data and success stories from staff to support grant writing efforts.
• Assists in tracking deadlines, deliverables, and follow-up correspondence with funders; participates in monitoring programs funded through grants and evaluating their success; gathers information and prepares reports on program implementation and progress for submission to the grantor.
• Help organize and maintain grant records in Salesforce.
• Provide administrative support, including note-taking at team meetings, preparing reports, and proofreading documents.
• Work with Grant Writer to maintain effective, long-term working relationships with grantors to facilitate approval of grants; ensure grantors are invited to special events or related functions; maintain informal contacts through telephone calls, e-mail, personal notes, and other methods.
• Uphold our commitment as a Mandated Reporter, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the mission of the program and organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A High School diploma or equivalent is required. 
• Must be at least 18-24 years of age is required. 
• An interest in English, Communications, Journalism, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Business, Marketing, Social Work, Sociology, or Psychology is preferred, but not required.
• Must be currently attending a university or college while pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree to be considered for the position.
• Must have a interest in nonprofit organizations, fundraising, or communications.
• Demonstrated writing and research skills (coursework, projects, or prior experience).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and willingness to learn databases.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills and a positive, professional demeanor.
• Ability to work effectively with people of diverse races, ethnicities and sexual orientations in a multicultural environment is required. 
• Valid Driver’s License is required.
• Successful completion of background (LiveScan) check. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work is performed in a typical office environment with the possibility of hybrid/remote assignments. Occasional travel to community sites or fundraising events may be offered as a learning opportunity.

In the course of performing this work, the Grant Department Intern will spend the majority of the time sitting, speaking, and listening. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties of the job.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Mandated Reporting Requirements: The person holding this position is considered a ‘mandated reporter’ under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment.

EEO STATEMENT:

All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. Ability First does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status under federal, state, or local law. 

Ability First is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. In addition, the organization will consider employment-qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.

Please include references in your application