Assistant Director, Office of Sponsored Programs Administrative Services

General Information

The Assistant Director within the Office of Sponsored Programs-Administrative Services plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth of external funding at James Madison University, including oversight of the grants specialists team and coordinating with other stakeholders. Additionally, the Assistant Director reviews research and related contracts, preparing guidance for the university's Authorized Organizational Representatives to support negotiation and signing. Finally, the Assistant Director also oversees the development of training material for the campus community.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversight of the grants specialists team: This position exercises authority in leading and directing a team of grants specialists, including setting priorities and ensuring consistent application of organizational standards across all sponsored project proposals, with a special emphasis on budgets.
• Contract review: The position provides front-line analysis of contractual provisions in research and related contracts to confirm compliance with organizational policies and standards, recommending revisions and coordinating with leadership on nonstandard terms.
• Resource and training development: The position provides oversight and decision-making authority for designing and maintaining JMU's budgeting training framework, especially setting programmatic priorities.
• Coordination with other stakeholders: The Assistant Director coordinates with other offices across campus to facilitate timely submission of competitive sponsored program proposals.
• Sponsored Programs administrative services as appropriate: The assistant director should excel as a senior grants specialist and be able to personally oversee budget development, proposal review, and provide related services, especially for particularly difficult programs.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and smooth operation of OSP-AS: A key responsibility of the Assistant Director is the drafting of appropriate policies and procedures for the review of the Director and other OSP-AS leadership.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• An advanced degree in research administration or extensive experience in research administration with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• Familiarity with the pre-award process, including budget development
• Prior experience with electronic research systems
• Strong attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in multi-tasking and prioritizing assignments in a deadline-driven environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• University and Sponsored Programs experience
• Knowledge of the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200)
• Ability to use multiple software systems, including research administration software platforms
• Demonstrated supervisory skills