"Research Administrator I"

Position Summary

The Division of Engineering Research (DER) in the College of Engineering is seeking a sharp, proactive, and detail-oriented Research Administrator to join one of the most forward-thinking research offices on campus. If you're energized by fast-paced proposal deadlines, love diving into the nuances of grant submissions, and thrive on helping faculty transform research ideas into funded projects—this role is for you.

As a key member of DER’s innovative pre-award team, you'll lead efforts in budget development, proposal preparation, and coordination with both internal and external research partners. You’ll serve as a trusted resource for faculty and staff navigating the complexities of sponsored research—supported by custom, in-house tools designed to make your work more efficient and impactful. DER values strategic thinking and continuously enhances resources to simplify tasks and encourage collaboration.

This position offers a hybrid schedule, combining in-office and remote work, subject to unit needs and supervisor approval.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Guide faculty through the full pre-award process, including developing budgets and reviewing solicitations
• Prepare and submit proposals through systems like Grants.gov, NSF Fastlane, and Research.gov
• Collaborate with Sponsored Programs Administration and Contract & Grant Administration
• Ensure all proposals meet sponsor guidelines and university requirements
• Provide some post-award support and financial coordination
• Tackle other administrative tasks that keep the research engine running

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Business Administration, Finance, or a research-related field; up to six months of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in research administration in one or more of the research process areas of pre- or post-award processes, such as regulatory administration; experience in word processing, spreadsheet and database software; or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. The job also requires completion of Essentials of Research Administration (MSU certificate) or equivalent within one year of hire.

Desired Qualifications

• 1–3 years of progressively responsible experience in research administration, preferably in an academic or research-focused environment
• Experience with federal, state, or industry grants, including developing complex budgets and managing grant processes
• Proficiency with electronic grant submission systems (e.g., NSF Fastlane, Grants.gov, Research.gov)
• Experience reviewing solicitations and aligning proposals with sponsor guidelines
• Strong analytical skills and experience with budget development, financial analysis, and revolving accounts
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment
• Self-starter with strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a service-oriented approach
• Knowledge of MSU policies and procedures is a plus
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) certification

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter detailing your experience, a current résumé, and contact information for three professional references.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.