About ARa
ARa is a governmental association founded in 1973 with help from Lilly Endowment Inc. ARa helps 12 Southern Indiana municipalities better compete for community and economic development resources and comply with complex federal regulations. Over the last 50 years, ARa communities have received support for more than 200 new industrial ventures resulting in more than $750 million in investment and the creation of over 4,000 new jobs.
Job Description: Community and Grants Analyst
Working under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Community and Grants Analyst will help ARa build stronger relationships in our member communities by utilizing information more effectively. The Analyst will work closely with Community Managers to create data rich profiles for our member service area while also providing grant administration for various programs. The Community and Grants Analyst will also lead a local low-income housing program.
Essential Functions
Grants Administration and Project Support (50%)
• Work with state, federal and foundation grants to ensure competing deadlines are met with specialized attention to agency-specific requirements.
• Procurement of professional services, labor standards, and environmental review.
• Complete reimbursement requests, progress tracking by award, and grant close outs
• Work closely with the Grants Manager to cross train and provide back up support when needed
• Will work closely with ARa’s team members to streamline pre-award and post-award processes.
• Ensure all documents are complete, organized, and scanned for grants supported
Community Data Analysis and Support (25%)
• Support Community Managers by gathering data needed for grant requests, community profiles, and similar data-rich activities
• Prepare community data profiles using design software that include graphics, data insights, and straightforward analysis.
• Prepare data analysis and visualization to offer new insights to communities, ARa, or other key stakeholders
• Serve as in house technical expert for how best to utilize technology to help ARa be more efficient and serve our members better
• Help mine for grants when needed, including in areas like environmental, social justice, substance use disorder, criminal justice, and equity
Local Housing Development Program Leader (15%)
• Program owner for a local low volume, low-income housing program.
• Full cycle support – write the grant, manage the project timeline, handle reimbursement requests, invoices, and home closing.
• Prepare ‘spotlights on success’ to share good news about projects, partners, and impact
Other Organization Support (10%)
• Create, plan and post social media as needed
• Organize, track, and report on team training progress
• Cross train in other areas as needed
Desired Qualifications and Experience
• A BS/BA degree from an accredited college/university required. Indiana University SPEA or similar preferred
• A valid US driver’s license
• Strong verbal and written communication skills. Grant writing and administrative experience preferred.
• Team player attitude – ability to work well in a small team.
• Detail oriented work ethic – ability to wade into detail, document required activities, and follow through to ensure completeness.
• Flexible and customer focused – able to accept and adapt to changing situations and customer needs
• Tech Savvy – Excellent computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office suite. Ability to use technology to mine, share and summarize data including software like Tableau and GIS. Canva, Meta Business Suite, Chat GPT, a plus.
Physical Requirements:
1. Ability to drive an automobile
2. Ability to use a computer for most of a typical business day
3. Able to lift 25 pounds as needed
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
• $40,000-$55,000 salary annually
• Eligible to participate in the company paid life, health and disability insurance programs, the SEP IRA Plan, etc. according to plan terms
• Annual vacation policy, personal days, municipal holiday schedule
• Access to company pool car for work related trips
• Historic office setting in Columbus, Indiana
Questions or ready to apply submit resume and cover letter to:
Whitney Koelling
Manager of Municipal Programs
whitney@aracities.org
