Median pay: $49,500
Top pay: $79,400
10-year job growth: 12%
Total jobs: 20,000
The job:
Put your skills of persuasion and writing chops to the test by putting together proposals seeking funding for any number of worthwhile projects. Since you're asking for money, your primary goal is to show how the funds will be used effectively for a worthy cause. You can work for any number of organizations, including corporations, nonprofits or government agencies. Most writing gigs come one job at a time, so you can take on as much work as you can handle. Pay is usually hourly or by project. Be wary of taking commissions based on how much funding you win, as it can put you in an ethical pinch.
How to switch:
Excellent writing skills are paramount: It takes a creative mind to craft a pitch that gets results. Many colleges offer continuing education courses in grant writing techniques. Check your local schools. The American Grant Writers' Association has more information at agwa.us.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
A |
C |
A |
By Donna Rosato and Tom Ziegler
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