"Grants Specialist I- Post Award"

Position Summary

The Grants Specialist in the Post-Award Department at Rice University is responsible for the financial and administrative management of externally funded research projects from award setup through closeout. This role ensures compliance with sponsor regulations, university policies, and federal guidelines while providing expert guidance to faculty and research staff on financial reporting, budget monitoring, and expenditure control. The Grants Specialist collaborates with principal investigators (PIs), departmental administrators, and funding agencies to facilitate timely invoicing, reconciliations, and audits, ensuring the effective stewardship of research funds. Additionally, this position supports effort reporting, cost transfers, and project modifications, contributing to the university's commitment to excellence in research administration.

Ideal Candidate Statement

The ideal candidate is someone who actively seeks out new knowledge, asks thoughtful questions, and embraces challenges as opportunities for development. They are naturally inquisitive, eager to explore new ideas, and open to feedback, using it as a tool for continuous improvement. This individual is adaptable and thrives in dynamic environments, demonstrating a willingness to take on new responsibilities and expand their skill set. They are proactive in their learning--whether through research, professional development, or collaboration with colleagues--and take initiative in problem-solving rather than waiting for direction. Their passion for growth is evident in their resilience, ability to navigate setbacks, and commitment to refining their expertise. Ultimately, they contribute to an innovative and forward-thinking workplace by bringing fresh perspectives, a positive attitude, and a dedication to lifelong learning.

Workplace Requirements

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Remote work is typically three days per week and begins after a training and probationary period. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range

$56,000 - $69,900
*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.*

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
  + In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
• 1+ year of experience. Experience may be gained through full-time employment, internships, student employment, or comparable experiential learning.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively correspond with faculty, administrators, and external partners, including funding agencies
• Evidence of ability to work independently as well as part of a team
• Evidence of problem-solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams, including researchers, finance staff, and external sponsors
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to assist with multiple grant awards, track deadlines, and ensure timely reporting
• Ability to review and interpret complex regulations and sponsor requirements with guidance, ensuring compliance and accurate financial management

Essential Functions

The Grants Specialist I position is considered entry-level and does not require similar experience. The person in this position must be trainable and will work with the Grants Specialist III's and/or supervisors to learn and will then be responsible for the simpler grants and agencies.

• 65%: Grant Management (including, but not limited to, participating in award setup, monitoring financial activity, interpreting and adhering to award terms and conditions, cost principles, and applicable regulations)
• 20%: Closeout (Monitor end dates and provide feedback to all stakeholders regarding status of accounts and availability of funds)
• 5%: Assistance to finance group with reconciliation and reporting

Additional Functions

• 10%: Other duties as assigned

Special Instructions to Applicants:
All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

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