Subaward Specialist

University of Wisconsin Madison•Madison, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP) is responsible for the administration of extramural research grants and contracts, managing a portfolio of over $4 Billion with annual awards exceeding $1 Billion. The Subaward Specialist will support sponsored projects for UW–Madison and UW System by processing, assisting with the negotiation, and ongoing administration of outgoing subawards. This role involves coordinating subrecipient documentation and risk assessments, identifying potential compliance and financial risks, and collaborating with RSP staff, department administrators, principal investigators, researchers, and subrecipient institutions to develop and interpret subaward terms and conditions. The Specialist will manage a queue of subawards, amendments, and related actions, prioritizing work based on project timelines, sponsor requirements, risk, and established procedures. Maintaining accurate subaward records and documentation in institutional systems, tracking agreements and amendments, and ensuring compliance with monitoring and audit requirements are key functions. Additionally, the Specialist will provide guidance and customer service to campus stakeholders regarding subaward processes, requirements, and compliance obligations.

Requirements

Experience with interpreting policies and procedures (e.g. State, Federal, University rules and regulations).
Evidence of strong customer service philosophy.
Evidence of fostering and maintaining effective working relationships.
Excellent written and oral communication techniques with attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Background in Research or Experience in Research Administration, including contract negotiation is preferred.
Experience building consensus.

Responsibilities

Reviews, interprets, negotiates, and processes complex extramural award documents, proposals, and agreements according to established policies and procedures to adhere to timelines and meet unit objectives (40%)
Develops and facilitates trainings for designated work units on extramural negotiation, contracting conditions, and associated policies and procedures (5%)
Issues sub-awards and sub-contracts (35%)
Establishes accounts in the financial accounting system (20%)