Pre-Award Specialist

UNC-Chapel Hill • Chapel Hill, NC

7d

About The Position

Position Summary The Pre-Award Specialist provides administrative and operational support to faculty members preparing grant and contract proposals in the School of Data Science and Society ( SDSS ). This position ensures accurate and timely submission of contract and research funding applications of assigned faculty, while maintaining compliance with university, funder, departmental, and other regulatory requirements. This position performs tasks related to budgeting, proposal preparation and organization, documentation, and coordination. The Pre-Award Specialist may also support some post-award activities as needed. This position reports to the Grants Coordinator.

Requirements

• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and interpretation of policies.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
• Proficiency with standard office software (Word, Excel, email).
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to research policies, protocols, and other submission-related requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with 1-2 years of pre-award experience.
• Previous experience in research office or grant administration environment in a higher education environment.
• Experience using UNC -CH systems such as RAMSes, Connect Carolina, etc.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and foundation proposal submission process and systems.
• Knowledge of research compliance requirements ( NIH , NSF , DOD , etc.).
• Experience supporting faculty or other academic professionals.

Responsibilities

• budgeting
• proposal preparation and organization
• documentation
• coordination

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees