Contracts & Grants Accountant I/II/III

Auburn University•Auburn, AL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Economic Development is accepting applications for a Contracts & Grants Accountant. This role provides comprehensive oversight of all financial activities related to extramural programs supporting research, instruction, outreach, and extension at Auburn University, the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Key responsibilities include reviewing award documents to ensure proper setup and modifications, monitoring budgets and expenses to maintain compliance with federal, state, and sponsor regulations, and preparing and submitting financial reports and reimbursement requests. This role also collaborates with investigators and staff on budgetary and financial matters while ensuring adherence to funding guidelines. Additionally, the position oversees the closeout process for grants and contracts, ensuring accurate reconciliations and final reporting.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 2 years of experience in accounting services.
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 0 years of experience in accounting services.
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 4 years of experience in accounting services.
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 2 years of experience in accounting services.
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 6 years of experience in accounting services.
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration and 4 years of experience in accounting services.

Nice To Haves

Contracts and Grants Accounting experience
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Experience in Higher Education
Working knowledge of Auburn University policies and procedures

Responsibilities

Conducts detailed financial reviews and analyzes sponsored agreements, including project periods, payment terms, budget allocations, and compliance with all relevant regulations, financial reporting requirements, and cost-sharing commitments.
Updates the financial system with all necessary sponsored, cost-share, third-party accounts as dictated by agreement packages received from the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP). Ensures consistency in data capture for internal and external reporting and responsible unit award management.
Collaborates with the pre-award office, college and department contacts, and sponsor points of contact to process amendments to awards, budget reallocations, and interim reporting from inception to closeout.
Prepares and submits financial reports in accordance with the terms of sponsored agreements. Maintains authority to invoice sponsors on behalf of the University.
Ensures accurate and timely billing of grant and contract receivables and consolidates federal fund draw requests.
Provides regulatory guidance to faculty, administrative units, and staff, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations governing sponsored research. Builds trust and provides efficient and effective support to diverse constituents both internally and externally.
Maintains expertise in interpreting and applying federal and state regulations governing sponsored research, including 2 CFR 200 Uniform Guidance, standard federal research terms and conditions, state regulations, other agency-specific requirements, and non-financial regulatory requirements. Stays current with developments in research administration through participation in professional development activities.
Reviews cost transfers for sponsored projects, ensuring proper recording and execution of financial transfers in accordance with applicable internal and external guidelines.
Identifies and corrects errors and inconsistencies in financial entries, documents, and reports, and processes adjustments or refunds as necessary.
Maintains organized and up-to-date financial records, ensuring all required documentation is accurately filed and readily accessible.
Reconciles project expenses, archives records, and submits final reports to ensure proper grant closure. Requires frequent interaction with faculty, staff, and administration.
Assists with the development, review, and maintenance of policies, procedures, tools, and resources based on the changing regulatory environment.