Contract Officer, Senior -Sponsored Programs (Government & Non-Profit for Academic Units)

The Contract Officer for Sponsored Programs is responsible for managing the negotiation, execution, and administration of contracts related to research funding and sponsored programs. This position ensures compliance with institutional policies and federal regulations while providing guidance and support to faculty and researchers throughout the contracting process.

Job Duty 1 - 
Review and analyze research proposals to ensure they meet institutional standards and comply with sponsor requirements before submission

Job Duty 2 - 
Negotiate contract terms and conditions with funding agencies to protect the institution's interests while facilitating research initiatives

Job Duty 3 - 
Draft, edit, and finalize research contracts and agreements to ensure clarity, compliance, and alignment with institutional policies

Job Duty 4 - 
Provide guidance and support to faculty and researchers throughout the contracting process by answering questions and addressing concerns related to contracts and funding

Job Duty 5 - 
Monitor and manage the compliance of awarded contracts by ensuring that all terms and conditions are followed during the life of the agreement or contract

Job Duty 6 - 
Maintain accurate records of all contracts and agreements to ensure proper documentation and facilitate audits and reviews

Job Duty 7 - 
Advise faculty and staff on contract management and sponsored program policies to improve understanding and compliance

Job Duty 8 - 
Stay informed about changes in federal regulations and funding agency policies to ensure the institution's compliance and enhance its research capabilities

Job Duty 9 - 
Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including legal counsel and finance departments, to address issues related to contracts and sponsored programs

Preferred Experience
In-depth knowledge of contracts administration regulations and practices, including those specific to:

• Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
• Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation
• Department of Energy Acquisition Regulation
• 2 CFR 200 Uniform Guidance
• Communications skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to communicate effectively with Institute and sponsor employees at all levels;
• Production of workable solutions to challenging situations, and skills related to the use of office equipment and specialized computer applications and systems. 

Experience within a not-for-profit, educational, or federal government contractor organization is preferred.

Demonstrated experience negotiating sponsored research agreements, contracts, teaming agreements and other research-related agreements on behalf of a not-for-profit, educational, or federal government or contractor organization.