Sponsored Research Contracts Specialist (Intermediate Professional)

University of Colorado•Hybrid, CO

1d•$51,881 - $72,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Colorado Anschutz Office of Grants and Contracts, within Financial Services, is seeking an Intermediate Professional Sponsored Research Contracts Specialist to support externally sponsored research across CU Denver and the CU Anschutz campus. The role helps ensure research agreements are negotiated thoughtfully, comply with sponsor and university requirements, and are executed in a timely manner. The specialist reviews and negotiates sponsored research and revenue agreements, analyzes incoming subcontracts and amendments, and works with campus research administrators to resolve complex terms. The position supports a broad research portfolio in a collaborative, mission-driven academic environment. It provides an opportunity to develop expertise across sponsored agreements and contribute to research, education, public service, and innovation. The position is hybrid, with two days per week on campus and additional in-person attendance as needed for meetings. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employment visa sponsorship. The position may be eligible for overtime compensation depending on its level. The university conducts background investigations for prospective employees. Vaccination and occupational health surveillance requirements may apply when working in specified healthcare or research settings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in an approved or directly related field from an accredited institution; a combination of education and technical, military, or paraprofessional experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree on a year-for-year basis.
At least one year of professional experience in business administration, research administration, public administration, contract administration, or a closely related field.
Working knowledge of federal research requirements, sponsor policies, and research administration practices.
Ability to communicate complex contract terms and requirements clearly and effectively in writing and verbally.
Ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with faculty, staff, sponsors, collaborating institutions, and campus partners.
Ability to provide responsive, solutions-oriented service while balancing institutional risk, sponsor requirements, and research needs.
Ability to organize and manage a high-volume agreement portfolio while maintaining accuracy, responsiveness, and follow-through.
Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and effective prioritization in a deadline-driven environment.
Legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employment sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Experience reviewing, negotiating, or administering sponsored research agreements, subcontracts, subawards, or amendments.
Experience working across sponsored projects, finance, procurement, compliance, or legal functions.
Experience interpreting complex contract terms and advising varied stakeholders.
Experience in higher education, academic medicine, healthcare, government, or another regulated research environment.
Juris Doctor or another relevant advanced degree.

Responsibilities

Review, draft, and negotiate sponsored research agreements, incoming subcontracts, revenue contracts, and amendments.
Analyze legal, financial, intellectual property, publication, confidentiality, data, and compliance terms, coordinating review with university experts as needed.
Partner with departments, sponsors, collaborating institutions, Procurement, and University Counsel to resolve issues and support timely execution.
Review agreement budgets and related documentation for alignment and accuracy.
Provide consultation, outreach, and training to faculty and research administrators.
Manage a high-volume portfolio while providing responsive, solutions-oriented service.