Development Writer/Editor Lead

Development Writer/Editor Lead

Position overview 

RMI seeks a writer with experience in energy and/or climate to join the Development Communications and Engagement team. This person will proof, edit, and write fundraising proposals, reports, concept notes, and other materials for current and prospective global donors, including individuals, foundations, family offices, bilateral and multi-lateral entities (including US government funders), corporate philanthropies, and other key stakeholders. Working with Development colleagues and program staff across the organization, the ideal candidate can manage competing priorities with a can-do attitude and consistently meet deadlines with high quality work.

This position requires a cover letter. Only applicants who submit a cover letter will be considered for the role. Cover letters should be submitted along with resumes when applying.

Roles and Responsibilities  

Develop compelling materials for funders (70%) 

• Proof, edit, and write proposals, reports, concept notes, emails, and more, curating content across RMI, targeting and maximizing appeal for specific donor audiences  

• Work with program staff to clearly articulate outcome, program, and initiative strategies to a donor audience, including strong impact measurement and well-researched theories of change

• Identify the need for donor materials, including assessing and resolving gaps and other issues in program content, framing, and donor positioning 

• Write marketing emails such as donor pre-release emails and other donor-focused marketing and communications campaigns

Operations (30%)

• Project management, including development, maintenance, and ongoing use of Monday.com boards to support communications, working collaboratively across programs, the Communications team, and Development verticals, ensuring deadlines are met with high-quality products 

• Develop and refine the Dev Comms team’s digital library, ensuring that all content is easy to find and accessible to program and development staff, including a library of materials focused on general operating support

• Build and refine efficient structures and processes, such as templates and other tools, for supporting the program teams with donor-oriented materials

• Other administrative duties as assigned

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university

• 3-5 years of development and grant writing experience at a non-profit

• Experience and background in economics, energy, climate, and/or environmental topic areas

• Excellent writing, editing, research, and storytelling skills with demonstrated ability to synthesize large amounts of information into succinct communications 

• Excellent attention to detail and exceptional accuracy

• Strong team and interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently

• Ability to interact with staff at all levels, often under pressure, remaining positive, flexible, proactive, resourceful, efficient, and managing multiple demands

• Able to manage multiple relationships and complex projects

• Ability to maintain professionalism and strict confidentiality at all times

• Ability to continually develop skills related to the use of rapidly changing technology and communications best practices

• Entrepreneurial spirit and skill set

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with, and preparing materials for, high-level and high-profile individuals, including C-suite leaders 

• Executed or performed work in non-US markets 

• Experience juggling conflicting priorities  

• Experience and/or interest working on sustainability, climate, or energy issues   

• Ability to communicate and coordinate across a diverse policy, industry, and stakeholder audience 

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $76,030 and $93,707. Salary is dependent on experience and will be discussed and vetted throughout the interview process. This role has an additional 5% bonus target!

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:   

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance   

• 403b Retirement Options (5% match immediately)   

• Generous PTO   

• Learning & Development opportunities   

• Parental leave   

• Life, AD&D, Short Term and Long-Term Disability   

• Commuter and Wellness Benefits    

Diversity        

Increasing the diversity of thought, perspectives, ideas, and opinions within RMI is a critical change element supporting our long-term sustainability and mission to build a clean, prosperous, and secure energy future.      

We strive for a level of diversity that reflects the communities we serve. Achieving this—regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, veteran status, socioeconomic class, educational attainment or other social identities—is critical to the success of each RMIer and collectively as an organization. This ensures that we:      

• Have the different array of thinking that comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enabling us to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges.      

• Strive for a culture of inclusion and belonging by treating others with dignity, respect and appreciation enabling them to feel welcomed, supported and valued.      

• Effectively connect, communicate and build long-lasting relationships with decision makers, stakeholders and constituents within diverse communities.       

RMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.       

About RMI  

RMI is an independent nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work in the world’s most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing.