Research Administration Training Manager

Baylor University • Waco, TX

3d

About The Position

Baylor University is seeking a Research Administration Training Manager who will be responsible for designing, developing, delivering, and continuously improving training programs that build research administration competency across the institution. This role serves as the primary educational resource for research administrators, faculty, department administrators, and other stakeholders engaged in sponsored research activities.

In addition to training responsibilities, this position maintains an active portfolio as a practicing Research Administrator, providing direct pre- and post-award support for an assigned set of principal investigators and departments. This dual role ensures that training content remains grounded in current practice and that the incumbent maintains up-to-date expertise in federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies.

All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Requirements

• All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
• A Bachelor's degree and three years of relevant work experience are required.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of the degree requirement.
• Regulatory Knowledge. Deep understanding of federal and sponsor requirements governing the lifecycle of sponsored awards.
• Instructional Expertise. Ability to translate operational knowledge into effective learning experiences for diverse audiences.
• Analytical Thinking. Capacity to interpret complex policy language, identify compliance risk, and problem-solve in novel situations.
• Relationship Management. Skill in building trust and effective working relationships with faculty, staff, and administrative leadership.
• Adaptability. Comfort working in a dynamic regulatory environment and managing shifting institutional priorities.
• Attention to Detail. Precision in reviewing proposals, awards, and financial reports to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Nice To Haves

• A Master’s degree or professional certification (Certified Research Administrator or equivalent) and five years of relevant work experience are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage a comprehensive research administration training curriculum covering pre-award, post-award, compliance, and financial management topics
• Develop and maintain training materials including instructor-led courses, e-learning modules, quick reference guides, job aids, policy summaries, and recorded webinars
• Deliver live training sessions, both in-person and virtual, for new and experienced research administration staff, faculty, and department personnel
• Establish and maintain a learning management system or equivalent platform for tracking participation, completion, and competency development
• Conduct needs assessments to identify training gaps, prioritize curriculum development, and measure training effectiveness through evaluations and outcome metrics
• Monitor changes in federal regulations (2 CFR 200, FAR, DFARS, NIH Grants Policy Statement, NSF PAPPG, etc.) and sponsor-specific requirements; update training content accordingly
• Develop and facilitate a research administration community of practice to support peer learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development
• Coordinate with external professional organizations (NCURA, SRA International, COGR) to bring relevant educational resources and certifications to institutional staff
• Serve as a Research Administrator for an assigned portfolio of principal investigators and departments, providing cradle-to-grave sponsored project management
• Prepare, review, and submit grant and contract proposals in accordance with sponsor guidelines and institutional requirements, including budgets, budget justifications, and required certifications
• Manage post-award activities including account setup, effort reporting, budget monitoring, subcontract administration, no-cost extensions, and closeout procedures
• Interpret and apply federal regulations, sponsor terms and conditions, and institutional policies to ensure compliance on sponsored awards
• Maintain current knowledge of tools and systems (e.g., Huron Research Suite) used in the administration of sponsored research
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and service to the research community
• Serve as a subject matter expert and resource for policy interpretation, best practices, and research administration standards
• Mentor junior research administration staff and provide guidance on complex transactions and compliance questions
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
• Ability to comply with university policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

Benefits

• As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions.
• Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees