Grant Management Specialist

The Grants Management Specialist provides guidance in the preparation and processing of research grants and management of the projects when awarded.

This position is responsible for application submissions and post award monitoring.

This position is also responsible for managing an assigned portfolio of complex grants and contracts using knowledge of grant and contract management rules and regulations, technical expertise, and analytical skills. 

Essential Functions:

• Performs pre-award and/or post award activities; assisting departmental faculty/PI in the development, preparation, and submission of grant and contract proposals; ensure all applications meet agency and university guidelines and published time tables and deadlines; ensure proposals are entered; manages assigned projects and financial project portfolios; develop budgets and budget justification.

• Prepare, coordinate and review certain proposal elements for consistency, accuracy, and completeness; monitor compliance with agency and University regulations regarding submission; verify all financial information to include application of the appropriate overhead rate for the project; review sponsored project proposals to ensure compliance with University and agency requirements.
• Manage budget, reporting and compliance timelines through the lifecycle of the grant or contract; establish sub-recipient financial and reporting requirements; coordinate issuance of sub-agreements; reconcile monthly budget reports and inform PI and/or supervisor of corrections/adjustments that have been made; prepare and submit requests for re- budgeting/modifying the funded project budget.
• Monitor compliance with agency and University regulations regarding reporting; maintain financial records per the institutional documents retention guidelines; closeout all funded projects consistent with university process and timelines.
• Interacts with sponsors with authority to request budget adjustments or other project modification; acts as expert on Federal regulations and University policies as they pertain to sponsored research.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree is required.

A minimum of three years of relevant professional work experience in budgeting, reporting, and/or administration in a university setting is required.

Specific experience in administration of research and sponsored projects in a university setting are strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must demonstrate strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Must also demonstrate the ability to communicate with authority, and manage a robust faculty portfolio. A strong customer service orientation is essential.

Candidate must demonstrate strong time management, organizational and planning skills and the ability to handle numerous tasks concurrently. Must be able to work independently on requests, manage workflow, respond to client needs, and manage multiple priorities in a deadline driven environment, as well as be a contributing member of a team. A strong focus on attention to detail and accuracy is essential.

Candidate must have strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills with the ability to identify, analyze problems and devise solutions. Strong conflict resolution skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline driven environment are essential.

Candidate must have a strong working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must also demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with colleagues and work as part of a team.

Knowledge of Federal and State laws, regulations, funding agency policies, and other requirements that affect grant program administration is highly desirable.
 

Physical/Environmental Demands:

• Carry/lift 25lbs.
• Sit for long periods of time

Deadline to Apply:

October 8, 2019

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu