Grants Research Manager

Propane touches nearly every corner of American life—from fueling school buses and farm equipment to heating homes and cooking meals. It powers businesses, strengthens rural economies, and provides a reliable energy source in emergencies. For members of the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), funding opportunities from federal agencies like the EPA, DOT, DOE, and SBA can mean expanding their services and strengthening their role in meeting America’s energy needs. As the Grants Research Manager, you will help NPGA’s 2,400 member companies identify and access these resources, guiding them through the grant process and supporting initiatives that save money, grow businesses, and promote energy security.

Reporting to the General Counsel and Vice President of Regulatory & Industry Affairs, you’ll research and evaluate funding opportunities, manage NPGA’s internal grant program, and build relationships with stakeholders across industries and federal agencies. Your work will ensure NPGA members have the resources they need to grow their businesses, navigate regulatory landscapes, and support energy independence through propane’s many applications.

This role offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the connection between NPGA’s members and vital federal resources. By identifying funding opportunities, fostering relationships with federal agencies, and supporting the grant application process, you will play a critical part in advancing propane’s role in powering businesses, supporting rural economies, and promoting energy independence. If you are driven by practical solutions, skilled in navigating complex systems, and excited about building relationships that create tangible results, we encourage you to join us and make a meaningful impact on the future of energy in America.

Work Environment, Salary, and Benefits

• You’ll enjoy a hybrid schedule with 2 days weekly in our Washington, DC office (Wednesdays + 1 flex day). You’ll travel outside of the DC area 6-8 times per year to attend NPGA Board meetings and stakeholder meetings as needed.
• The budgeted salary for this role is $80K – $90K with comprehensive benefits, including medical and dental coverage, transportation assistance, 3 weeks of PTO, 14 federal holidays, 401(k) with employer contribution, and more.
• In addition to the mentorship you’ll receive from your team, we provide technical training and professional development opportunities to help you advance in your career.
• You will like who you work with. Your colleagues are highly respected industry experts, and our members are fantastic. Many of our members are family-owned, family-friendly companies that are welcoming and appreciative of our work. Our experienced team will support you as you come up to speed.

Responsibilities

• Develop an in-depth understanding of federal agency grant activity (e.g., DOE, EPA, DOT, SBA, etc.) to determine funding opportunities available to the propane industry and methods to apply.
• Manage and administer funding received and develop best practices to increase funding for the propane industry.
• Participate in relevant agency public meetings and hazardous material industry coalition meetings.
• Review the daily publication of the Federal Register to identify federal actions that potentially impact the propane industry. Prepare a summary for review by the Vice President, Regulatory & Industry Affairs to determine if additional action is necessary.
• Review and update regulatory compliance guides and materials published by the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC).
• Participate in spring and fall meetings of the PERC Advisory Council.
• Conduct special research, analysis, and writing projects as needed or assigned by senior staff leadership.
• Effectively interface with all levels of NPGA staff as well as NPGA Board of Directors, Government Affairs Committee, Producers & Wholesalers Section of NPGA Membership, PERC Advisory on Industry Engagement, Propane Supply and Logistics Committee, and Renewable Fuels Committee.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (engineering, energy, political science, or related areas preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in grant research or administration, but candidates with experience in energy, transportation, government relations, or advocacy are encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated experience supporting others through grant application processes (providing guidance, developing toolkits, leading webinars, etc.), building relationships with stakeholders, or coordinating committee meetings is highly preferred.

About NPGA

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is the national trade association representing the U.S. propane industry. NPGA’s membership includes small businesses and large corporations engaged in the retail marketing of propane gas and appliances, producers and wholesalers of propane equipment, manufacturers and distributors of propane gas appliances and equipment, fabricators of propane gas cylinders and tanks, and propane transporters. With a membership of approximately 2,300 companies in all 50 states, 36 affiliated state or regional associations, and members in 19 foreign countries, the association represents every segment of the propane industry. NPGA’s mission is to advance safety and to increase the use of propane through sound public policy.

Internally this position is titled Grants and Agency Engagement Manager.

Staffing Advisors is committed to reducing bias in every aspect of the hiring process. We have long recommended a competency-driven approach to hiring. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position description; we will consider people from a variety of backgrounds and career experiences.