Grants Optimization Specialist

Primary Purpose:

To provide comprehensive support for federal and state educational programs through data analysis compliance monitoring grant facilitation technical assistance professional development and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders ultimately ensuring the successful implementation and impact of federally funded services across Region 16 and its LEAs.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

• Bachelors degree required; Masters preferred
• Valid Texas Teaching Certificate preferred

Skills

• In-depth knowledge of federal and state education programs including ESSA Title programs and SCE
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and evaluate program impact
• Excellent organizational documentation and time management skills
• Proficiency in TEA systems (TEAL eGrants) SmartSheet/WorkApps and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for varied audiences
• Ability to plan and deliver research-based professional development
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships
• Familiarity with federal grant budgeting expenditures and compliance reporting

Working Conditions:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals
• Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate prolonged sitting frequent standing; occasional bending/stooping pushing/pulling twisting and standing
• Motion: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing and walking repetitive hand motions frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching occasional driving
• Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)
• Environment: Must be physically able to work inside; tolerate frequent districtwide travel and occasional statewide travel; regular exposure to noise
• Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours on occasion
• Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Works collaboratively across teams and ESC networks to assess professional development needs through data and reflection.
2. Supports ESC accountability and ensures accurate timely collection of compliance data related to ESSA and other federal/state mandates.
3. Assists and monitors LEA compliance for eGrants amendments reporting and documentation.
4. Maintains strong communication with TEA ESCs LEAs and school staff to share updates and expectations.
5. Regularly informs LEAs on federal/state updates planning requirements and necessary changes.
6. Guides Superintendents and leadership in completing the Standard Application System (SAS) for all Title programs.
7. Delivers PD and technical assistance in areas such as fiscal compliance Private Non Profit (PNP) schools State Compensatory Education etc.
8. Plans delivers and follows up on research-based PD for grants including needs assessments and engagement.
9. Utilizes various platforms (face-to-face webinars videoconferencing) to deliver training.
10. Assists district leadership in federal budgeting and ensures alignment with guidelines.
11. Tracks and documents technical assistance and program compliance using TEAL and SmartSheet/WorkApps.
12. Serves as a liaison between TEA and LEAs promoting Region 16s services and offerings.
13. Aids in writing and revising grant applications to secure additional funding.
14. Researching available grant opportunities to further the mission of the ESC.
15. Reviews LEA grant expenditures to confirm timeliness and appropriate use of funds.
16. Communicates ongoing grant and program updates to internal directors and program leaders.
17. Collaborates with ESC Directors Business Office and specialists to manage grants effectively.
18. Reports consistently on grant and budget status to Directors or their designees.
19. Submits all reports accurately and promptly to ESC administration and TEA.
20. Helps maximize federal grant expenditures through strategic planning and collaboration.
21. Travels as a part of job responsibilities.
22. Maintains a functioning cell phone and is accessible through this phone as deemed appropriate by the service area director. A functioning cell phone means that it is charged activated messages checked and mailbox emptied regularly.
23. Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities.
24. Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance in Region 16.
25. Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters.
26. Supports the mission goals and objectives of the ESC strategic plan.
27. Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program.
28. Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies processes and procedures.
29. Manages time calendar and job responsibilities to meet deadlines.
30. Meets proficiency levels of required technology skills as outlined by the supervisor.
31. Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor.
32. Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervises and evaluates the performance of the following:

• None

Required Experience:

Unclear Seniority