Grant Researcher/Grant Writer

Location: Port Authority Technical Center (PATC), 241 Erie Street, Jersey City, NJ 07310

Period of Performance: Part-time, maximum 30 hours per week, within a three-year contract term starting on or about January 1, 2026

Work Environment: Onsite work required on an as-needed basis

Citizenship Requirement: Must be a U.S. citizen 

Company Overview:

About Enlightened:
Enlightened is a leading provider of IT and federal program support services, committed to delivering innovative solutions and ensuring mission success.

Position Overview:
Enlightened is seeking a highly motivated Grant Researcher / Grant Writer.  The Grant Researcher / Grant Writer identifies, evaluates, and pursues grant opportunities that support the Port Authority’s security initiatives. The role includes researching funding programs, coordinating with internal stakeholders, and preparing clear, compliant grant applications and supporting materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and research federal, state, and other grant opportunities related to homeland security and critical infrastructure protection.
• Analyze eligibility and requirements and advise leadership on which opportunities best fit agency needs.
• Draft, organize, and edit grant applications, narratives, budgets, and required attachments, and coordinate reviews and approvals.
• Support post-award activities, such as responding to funder questions, assisting with amendments, and preparing required progress documentation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Accounting, Business, Finance, Public Administration, or five (5) years of comparable experience.
• Strong research and writing skills, with experience in grant writing or grant program administration.
• Familiarity with federal, state, or local grant processes, particularly homeland security–related programs such as UASI and general reimbursement programs.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience managing grant awards, including completing required financial reporting and monitoring project costs, schedules, and budgets.
• Strong financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting skills, with experience in grant administration or grant-funded programs preferred.
• Excellent organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple grants and deadlines.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Support post-award activities, such as responding to funder questions, assisting with amendments, and preparing required progress documentation.

Equal Opportunity Statement: 

Enlightened is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.