Research Contract and Grants Specialist

Posting Details

Position Information

Posting Number 20113025

Position Title Research Contract and Grants Specialist

FTE 1.00

Position Type Staff

Department Sponsored Program Administration

Position Summary Information

Job Summary/Basic Function

About This Role:

The Contract & Grant Specialist provides professional guidance and support to faculty in a busy, fast-paced academic environment seeking extramural funding through research and service grants, cooperative agreements, sub awards, and contracts. The position will serve as a source of expertise for federal, state, industry, and private foundation applications, ensure submissions are in compliance with sponsor guidelines including program budgets, and facilitate the execution of awarded grants. The successful candidate should demonstrate an understanding of federal/state funding regulations and cost principles as well as assist in federal/state reporting requirements. Strong analytical and accounting skills and high attention to detail are essential for this position.

What You’ll Do – Position Responsibilities

Preparation of Grant and Contract Documents for Submission to Funding Agencies:

• Prepares grants and subcontracts documents for submission to external sponsors, including federal and state agencies and private foundations.
• Works closely with Principal Investigators to develop proposal budgets, assemble, review and submit applications, and prepare Letters of Intent for subcontracts.
• In collaboration with the research compliance officer, assures compliance with pertinent grant guidelines.
• Documents the sponsored programs’ activities for internal and external audits and reviews.
  
  

Customer Service And Collaboration

• Exercises judgment and initiative and interacts with faculty, staff, and external agencies in a professional manner.
• Provides superior customer service to Lamar University’s research community.
• Collaborates with internal and external colleagues in addressing issues pertinent to sponsored project management and reporting.
  
  

Administrative And Financial Oversight

• In collaboration with the staff members in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs Administration ( ORSPA ), assists principal investigators in budget review and program reporting.
• Ensures the departments and colleges are in compliance with LU’s policy and reporting for research grant revenues.
• Provides administrative assistance, financial oversight, and guidance related to sponsored research as directed by ORSPA’s leadership.
  
  

Professional Development And Participation

Attends and participates in group and project meetings, as well as professional workshops.

• Addresses the ORSPA - related business items as assigned by the AVP - Research.
  
  

Key Competencies

• Ability to work effectively, independently, and as a member of a team.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to plan work, set priorities, and respond to pressures, deadlines, and changes in schedules and priorities.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain and foster confidentiality.
• Ability to communicate professionally in writing and orally.
• Proficiency in data management, spreadsheets, and other computer software.
  
  

Physical Requirements

Able to lift 25 pounds and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing, and walking between buildings.

Job Conditions

This position may require occasional evening and/or weekends to meet university and departmental needs.

Who We Are

Lamar University is an accessible global university for life-long learners with a passion for broad-based community engagement. As a vital contributor to the socioeconomic wellbeing and resilience of the Gulf Coast region, our expertise is recognized locally and beyond. Lamar University is home to more than 17,000 students and is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 100-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals.

Lamar University is committed to fostering a culture where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can learn, work, and serve.

Benefits

• Health, dental & vision insurance
• Life insurance
• State of Texas Retirement plans
• Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents.
• Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.
  
  

To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Insurance – Lamar University

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Business, or a STEM related field from an accredited higher education institution.
• At least 1-year relevant experience working in an office setting.
• At least 1-year experience working in one or more areas of accounting, finance, budget, management, or customer service.
  
  

EEO Statement

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Veteran's Preference Statement

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree preferred.
  
  

Security Sensitive Statement

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code

• 51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.
  
  

Salary $41,809 - $54,352

Work Hours

Application Information

Posting Date 12/03/2024

Close Date 03/03/2025

Open Until Filled No

Special Instructions