Position Summary

General job functions will entail independently performing post-award functions for an assigned group of investigators in the College of Natural Science consisting primarily of managing project aspects including financial oversight, compliance, reporting and administrative coordination.

Qualified candidates will be highly organized and self-motivated as well as able to balance multiple tasks and deliver high-quality analysis within sponsor deadlines.  Individuals will be expected to build rapport with faculty, departmental staff, and central pre-award, post-award and compliance offices.  In addition, candidates will have a strong sense of ownership and accountability for their work and will exercise excellent independent judgement.  Occasional after-normal-business-hours and weekend administrative, educational, and training events may be required.

Characteristic Duties – Responsibilities (60%)

• Provide post-award administration of grants, contracts and sub-contracts.
• Coordinate subcontract and sponsor communication.
• Function as university fiscal officer on project accounts.  This includes being responsible for timely cost redistributions, reimbursements, travel, vendor and subcontract payments.
• Facilitate ordering of supplies, services and equipment as directed by Primary Investigator.
• Coordinate processing of cost-share entries and effort reporting.
• Prepare and distribute ongoing financial and budget reporting and advise on ongoing stewardship of grant funds.
• Review project budget status with investigators and prepare financial aspects of interim and final financial and technical progress reports.  Update project budgets and cost allocations as changes in project plans are identified.
• Facilitate the administration, monitoring and financial management of moderately complex projects in accordance with applicable federal, state, local and university policies, procedures and regulations.
• Work with HR Administrator to provide information needed for hiring of project staff.
• Assist pre-award team with contract execution, account setup and activation.
• Help investigators resolve problems with proposals, contracts, financial reports and/or accounts receivable.
• Consult with sponsors, faculty and personnel to determine expense allowability, cost-sharing requirements, prepare financial reports and provide advice on proper procedures and guidelines.
• Follow up on expense issues with appropriate project personnel.
• Coordinate annual and final report submissions to funding agencies with all relevant stakeholders.
• Collect information required in audits and site visits.
• Work with investigators to analyze problems or needs and develop solutions by drawing on position of expertise.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.

Research Compliance (30%)

• Conduct highly competent review of applications for compliance with regulations and policies and assist other project personnel in ensuring compliance with research guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
• Create a variety of reports, documents and correspondence for regulatory agencies and internal purposes to assist in the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of a project’s progress.
• Identify problems and/or inconsistencies and recommend corrective actions as appropriate.
• Guide the investigator in the preparation of regulatory and progress reports.
• Audits financials, billing, data collection, and regulatory documentation as required.

Professional Development and Service (~5%)

• Pursue continuing education related to the field of Research Administration and Professional Development, including but not limited to conference/training attendance, virtual training and/or MSU HR courses.

Operational Support (5%)

• Complete other duties as assigned within the scope of the role.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Business administration, Finance; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in research administration including the area of pre- or post-award processes, or related field such as regulatory administration; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. This job requires completion of Essentials of Research Administration (MSU Certificate) or equivalent within one year of hire. 

Desired Qualifications

One or more years’ experience with budget tracking. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Intermediate knowledge of accounting, budgeting, grant management and the skill to apply these fundamentals to everyday work.
• Strong administrative and organizational skills.
• Thorough attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions, policies, procedures and other guidance accurately.
• Ability to accurately create or maintain records and documents, including sensitive information preserving confidentiality. Skill in critical thinking, fact-finding, problem analysis, and the development of action plans to solve problems. 
• Ability to identify, optimize, and effectively utilize resources to meet goals.  
• Ability to demonstrate commitment to a positive workplace culture and ethical decision-making.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and professionalism.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite and university systems (EBS, KFS, etc.).
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

College of Natural Science Required Qualifications

Experience working in university accounting systems (KFS) and the use of PowerBI reporting and CGA’s Account Explorer tools are essential.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume, Cover letter, References

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://natsci.msu.edu/

Bidding eligibility ends August 12, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.