Sponsored Programs Specialist (Grants)

About the role

The Sponsored Programs Specialist supports and monitors grant activities within the assigned department, ensuring compliance with university policies and sponsor regulations. This role serves as a liaison between departmental administrators, sponsoring agencies, and internal finance teams.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor sponsored accounts for problem expenditures, compliance issues, and follow‑up with departmental and agency personnel.
• Resolve expenditure discrepancies, overdrafts, and other financial issues.
• Analyze awarded account information, research the accounting system, and coordinate with administrators to resolve issues.
• Review and approve/deny HR transactions (new hires, account changes, overload payments) that impact sponsored accounts.
• Approve or deny payroll journal entries and non‑payroll transactions affecting sponsored accounts.
• Set up account budgets based on awarded amounts and agency‑approved budgets.
• Interpret regulations and assist administrators in understanding sponsored program requirements.
• Prepare accounts for transmittal, closing, and termination of awards.
• Ensure release of unobligated funds on purchase orders.
• Adhere to university and unit‑level policies, safeguarding assets.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience.
• Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Technical proficiency with office software and relevant computer applications.

Required skills

• Office software