Grants and Contracts Administrator

About the position

The School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Virginia is seeking a Grants and Contracts Administrator to support Post Award Research Administration in the Dean's Office. This role involves providing grants management, administrative support, financial oversight, and accounting services. The successful candidate will collaborate with faculty, staff, and stakeholders across the School and University to deliver exceptional customer service to our research community.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of research awards, ensuring alignment with project scope, budget, and schedule.
• Provide financial oversight, including spending plans, balance reviews, and financial projections; assist with resolving deficits.
• Review and approve invoices, purchase orders, and other procurement documents; process payroll, accounting entries, and journal adjustments.
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and University regulations, policies, and procedures; offer guidance on funding agency requirements.
• Monitor award progress and ensure compliance with all applicable guidelines.
• Prepare and review documents, reconciliations, reports, and other materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Resolve issues efficiently while maintaining strong attention to detail.

Requirements

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Solid technical aptitude and willingness to learn research and financial systems (e.g., Workday Financials, QlikSense, Huron Research Suite).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel with a desire to further develop advanced skills.
• Strong understanding of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with federal funding agencies (e.g., NIH, NSF, DOD) and sponsor-specific requirements such as RPPRs is preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) certification is preferred.