What are the responsibilities and job description for the Grants Specialist II position at Rice University?
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Position Summary
The Office of Sponsored Projects and Research Compliance (SPARC) is committed to providing excellent administrative support to investigators in their pursuit of research endeavors and other scholarly activities while ensuring compliance with federal, University and private sponsor regulations, terms and conditions.
The grants specialist II, under limited supervision, will use their expertise and independently serve as a coordinator of all activities related to proposal development and submission as well as award management and all associated data entry as assigned to complex departments, supporting all phases of research administration including both pre-award and non-financial post-award processing of grants and contracts. S/he will provide general guidance and training to the grant specialist I position/s. SPARC is seeking a team oriented individual who excels in customer service and can work well in a deadline driven environment.
Essential Functions
- Completes essential functions described for Grants Specialist I
- Conducts formal solicitation, negotiation, and administration of grants by government and non-government sponsors
- Accepts basic grant and sub awards (under grant prime) on behalf of the university
- Assists department administrators, principal investigators, and staff; interpret and explain grant provisions and terms
- Assists in the resolution of problems arising in the course of the project; consults with department administrators, principal investigators, staff, and sponsors
- Partners with others to serve as a resource to educate units regarding institutional processes
- Provides content expertise to faculty requesting advice and interpretation of sponsoring agency guidelines and of University policies as they pertain to the development of research proposals and the proper administration of sponsored grants and contracts
- Analyzes complex situations, identify workable solutions / alternatives and effectively balance customer service with regulatory compliance
- May assist with training staff in the procedures and applicable regulations related to sponsored projects
- May serve as a back up to the supervisor as designated during the supervisor's absence
- Performs all other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree
- 3 years related experience in federal and non-federal grant preparation, contract negotiation, research administration, or regulatory positions working in a university setting
- Knowledge of grant programs and processes
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- The ability to organize and manage multiple proposals
- Must be able to interpret complex regulations and requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, or accounting
- Experience in research administration of federal and non-federal grants, grant submissions, and post award management
- Experience in an administrative role at a university in a department or a central research administration unit
- Experience working in a large centralized university setting
- Experience in accounting or finance
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft software (e.g. Word and Excel)
- Knowledge of funding sources, university policies and electronic research administration
Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits
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