Reference #: 2021672 The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) is one of ten academic departments in the College of Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University. With 25 core faculty members, CEE tackles cutting-edge challenges in science and technology. The department's interdisciplinary approach includes joint appointments across Engineering, Public Policy, Architecture, and the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy. Research focuses on advanced infrastructure systems, environmental engineering, sustainability, mechanics, materials, and computing. CEE is characterized by a strong community spirit and dedication to high-quality work. Visit our website at https://www.cmu.edu/cee/index.html for more information.

We're hiring a Sponsored Research Administrator (Post-Award) to manage CEE's sponsored research and internal accounts for faculty within the department. Responsibilities include advising on policy, overseeing grant and contract management (including fiscal oversight, compliance, forecasting), and collaborating with central offices like Sponsored Project Accounting and Office of Sponsored Programs. This role demands strong customer service, financial oversight, and compliance with complex regulations. The ideal candidate will excel in a dynamic environment, manage multiple tasks efficiently, and contribute effectively to team efforts.

Core responsibilities include:

Post-Award

In this role as Sponsored Research Administrator (Post-Award) at CEE, you will collaborate closely with the Assistant Business Manager to handle post-award reporting and financial transactions, assist faculty with inquiries, and support activities such as processing modifications and no-cost extensions. You will proactively plan for the closure or extension of expiring grants by issuing closeout notices 90/60/30 days prior to the award end date and prepare awards for finalization while conducting thorough research in preparation for review by the Assistant Business Manager. Responsibilities also include interpreting and applying regulations and guidelines for program funding across multiple moderately complex grants within CEE's research portfolio, encompassing entities like NSF, DOE, DOD, Chevron, and various foundations. You will meticulously reconcile and monitor expenditures to ensure compliance with grants, Uniform Guidance 2CFR Part 200, and GAAP, and manage administrative tasks such as preparing subcontracts, service agreements, budget modifications, and expense transfers. Analyzing project forecasts, budgets, and post-award management tasks for portfolios including NSF, DOE, DOD, Chevron, and foundations will be essential, along with evaluating award portfolios for budget adherence, burn rate, end dates, and effort distribution for research personnel. Additionally, you will oversee the effort certification process, prepare detailed financial reports for account review, and monitor the shared research inbox for timely responses and actions.

Pre-Award

Pre-award is generally handled by the Engineering Research Accelerator, but this position may serve as backup for some pre-award duties. Working with college and university research administrators as well as those from collaborative companies and institutions. Working closely with Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) and sponsor for submission, budget revisions, additional forms, justification, initial labor verification, etc. Coordinating and submitting just in time information and other sponsor requests before issue of awards.

Administrative

Processes WorkDay transactions for research personnel as needed. Tracking submitted proposals and assisting in reporting proposal statistics. Maintaining templates and distributing to faculty. Staying current in sponsor rules and regulations. Attending departmental and university wide meetings, as well as training sessions to learn new programs, policies, and processes. Other duties as assigned.

You should demonstrate:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong attention to detail

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree required

At least one year of sponsored research related experience required

Grant Accounting or familiarity with federal, state, and private grants preferred

Higher education experience required

Existing RACC CRA certification preferred or willingness to pass the RACC CRA exam within one year of start date

Experience with Excel, Oracle Projects and LD modules, and project management applications required

Requirements:

Successful background check

Please include a Resume and cover letter as part of your application.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insuranceto an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may beawaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

LocationPittsburgh, PA Job FunctionResearch Administration Position TypeStaff - Regular Full Time/Part timeFull time Pay BasisSalary More Information:

Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

Statement of Assurance

Carnegie Mellon University considers applicants for employment without regard to, and does not discriminate on the basis of, gender, race, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.