Google Ads Grant Specialist (Volunteer)

Google Ads Grant Specialist (Volunteer)

Note: This is a remote, part-time volunteer position. Please do not apply if you are only seeking paid employment.

Put your digital advertising skills to work for a cause that matters.
 

We’re seeking a Google Ads Grant Specialist to lead and grow our use of the Google Ad Grants program. This is a unique opportunity to shape and execute ads strategy across multiple departments, using real data to drive awareness, engagement, and donor growth — all in service of fearless investigative journalism.

Who We Are

WhoWhatWhy is a nonprofit investigative news organization producing deep-dive journalism on the most pressing issues of our time. We’re powered by skilled volunteers and a small core staff — from students to seasoned pros — who believe in ethical, independent journalism free from corporate or political influence.
 

About the Role

As the Google Ads Grant Specialist, you’ll:

• Manage and optimize our Google Ad Grants account in compliance with program guidelines
• Develop and execute advertising strategies to reach:
  • High-net-worth individuals
  • Moderate-income donors
  • Gen Z audiences through issue-based campaigns
• Collaborate with the Donor Development, Marketing, and Editorial teams to craft relevant, high-impact campaigns
• Research keywords, set bid strategies, and structure campaigns to maximize reach and conversion
• Track ad performance (CTR, conversion, quality score) and make data-driven improvements
• Identify opportunities for new landing pages or campaign variations based on user intent
• Stay current on Google Ad Grants policies, ensuring continued eligibility and best practices
• Build out SOPs and reporting templates to support scalability and train future team members

What We’re Looking For

• Hands-on experience managing Google Ads, preferably Google Ad Grants
• Strong understanding of ad metrics, keyword targeting, and A/B testing
• Familiarity with nonprofit or cause-based advertising campaigns
• Excellent written communication for ad copy, messaging, and team collaboration
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and pivot strategy based on analytics
• Passion for media transparency, civic engagement, and nonprofit missions

What You’ll Gain

• Ownership of a key digital program with real-world impact
• Experience running ads for a high-visibility nonprofit newsroom
• A portfolio of campaign results, strategy docs, and platform wins
• Flexible, remote schedule (apart from occasional check-ins or meetings)

Commitment

We ask for a commitment of 5–7 hours per week and a minimum of 6 months, with the option to extend. This includes ad management, reporting, and cross-team collaboration.

How to Apply

Please send:

• Your resume
• A thoughtful cover letter telling us why this role speaks to you

To confirm that you’ve read this description, include the phrase “Committed to the Mission” and the result of 12 ÷ 3 somewhere in your letter.

If there’s no place to attach a cover letter, email it to [email protected]. Check your spam folder for responses — they sometimes land there.

Reminder

We do not consider generic or AI-generated applications. Your submission should reflect your voice and alignment with our mission.

Join Us

This is your chance to drive digital growth through strategic advertising — and help power investigative journalism that challenges power and informs the public.