Senior Research Financial Analyst
About The Position
Under the direction of the Senior Director of Research Operations, the Senior Research Financial Analyst oversees a broad range of responsibilities related to sponsored program financial reporting and activity management. This role manages complex sponsored program financial activities, including high-level reporting, compliance monitoring, and process optimization. The position serves as a subject matter expert for financial systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in research finance workflows. The role focuses on internal financial operations and strategic improvements, requiring strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn financial systems, and close collaboration with internal departments to maintain compliance and operational efficiency.
Requirements
- 5–7+ years of progressive financial management experience with sponsored programs or grants, including financial reporting, compliance, and audit support.
- Hands-on expertise with financial systems, particularly Grants Management, plus advanced Excel skills to support complex reconciliations, reporting, and analysis.
- Working knowledge of federal and non-federal grant regulations, including Uniform Guidance, audit requirements, and compliance.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree or CPA is preferred, not required.
- Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial reporting tools.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Expertise in sponsored program accounting, budgeting, and compliance.
- Ability to analyze trends, identify risks, and recommend solutions to support organizational goals.
- Demonstrated ability to lead process improvements and adapt to evolving regulatory and operational requirements.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and review complex financial reports, reconciliations, and analyses for sponsored programs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with institutional and sponsor requirements.
- Maintain and enhance Grants Management attributes to support accurate reporting; troubleshoot system issues and recommend improvements.
- Coordinate year-end audit preparation and compliance reviews; monitor federal and non-federal regulations and apply updates as a technical resource and mentor to Research Financial Analyst I and II staff, providing guidance on complex issues and best practices.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and scalability; lead initiatives to streamline workflows and improve reporting accuracy.
- Manage invoicing, cash draws, and accounts receivable processes to ensure timely billing and collections.
- Prepare, review, correct, and submit journal entries.
- Ensure strict adherence to system and departmental compliance policies and all applicable laws and regulations.
- Provide mentorship, training, and performance management support for assigned financial analysts.
- Collaborate closely with Accounting, Sponsored Programs Administration, and other internal departments to ensure timely processing of journal entries, budget adjustments, and closeouts.
- Champion change management initiatives to improve consistency, effectiveness, and scalability of financial operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support research financial operations.
Benefits
- Benefits will be provided to each candidate once an offer is extended.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
