Senior Financial Analyst - Effort Reporting Specialist (Federal Grant Regulation Exp Preferred)

Vanderbilt Health • Nashville, TN

380d

About The Position

The Senior Financial Analyst-Effort Reporting Specialist is a key component in oversight and monitoring activities related to the effort reporting process within VUMC. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations related to effort certification on sponsored projects and the related accuracy of those labor expenses. The specialist will work with department research administrative staff and faculty to provide guidance and support in accurately documenting and certifying effort.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, or a related field
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in research administration, grants management, or a related field
• Strong understanding of federal regulations related to effort reporting (e.g., Uniform Guidance, NIH policies)
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in using effort reporting software and databases
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred
• Experience with effort reporting systems and processes in a research setting is highly desirable

Responsibilities

• Review and approve payroll accounting adjustments (PAAs) daily for accuracy, timeliness, and proper documentation
• Enter PAAs centrally for changes in effort certification as needed
• Perform manual Reconciliation of certification data vs. GL data
• Request and manage recertification of prior periods as needed
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations regarding labor expenses, salary over the cap, cost transfers, and effort certification
• Assist in audits and resolve any discrepancies or issues related to effort reporting
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant regulations and guidelines
• Develop expertise in Workday Effort Reporting
• Perform activities in Workday: PAA review, Effort Trend reporting, Pay Results review, Cost Transfer review, PCA review, Effort Certification review
• Support departments to complete PAAs correctly including standardized documentation practices and timely submission of PCAs
• Provide ongoing 'hands-on' training and troubleshooting and actively participate in daily office hours for all related activities
• Develop and assist in conducting training sessions for faculty, researchers, and administrative staff on effort reporting requirements and procedures
• Provide ongoing support and guidance to staff regarding effort reporting policies and best practices
• Review and update training materials and resources
• Participate in testing as requested for Workday payroll-related items
• Analyze effort reporting and payroll accounting adjustments data to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement
• Prepare regular reports for management on effort reporting status and compliance and associated grant metrics
• Collaborate with the finance and grants management teams to ensure alignment and accuracy in reporting
• Evaluate current effort reporting processes and identify opportunities for improvement
• Implement procedures to streamline and optimize the effort reporting workflow
• Stay informed about industry best practices and incorporate them into VUMC processes
• Support VUMC effort reporting practices, ensuring timely and accurate reporting
• Assist in the distribution, collection, and review of effort reports
• Monitor effort reporting deadlines and send reminders to ensure compliance

Benefits

• Professional growth opportunities
• Appreciation of benefits
• Sense of community and purpose

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees