SENIOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS ASSOCIATE (PRE-AWARD) #00029999

Hiring Department

Office of Sponsored Programs

Job Description

Position Summary

The Senior Business Operations Associate (Pre-Award) performs work critical to the administration of contracts and grants from federal, state, and local government, non-profit, and foundation sponsors. Responsibilities include reviewing, analyzing, and negotiating contracts; maintaining knowledge of policies, procedures, and regulations; managing the preparation and submission of proposals; monitoring for compliance; and providing exceptional customer service to stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the preparation and submission of proposals, including large, complex proposals to funding agencies
• Keep abreast of new developments in university policies and procedures, as well as federal and state regulations
• Analyze, interpret, and develop recommendations to research faculty for proposal submissions based upon sponsor and university requirements
• Interpret and communicate sponsor guidelines, University policy and procedures, state and federal law, and industry best practices to PIs, and department/college administrators to ensure compliance with sponsor and University policies
• Review and negotiate contracts and grants from federal, state, and local government, non-profit, and foundation sponsors
• Read and analyze research grants and contracts; conduct contract negotiations to include CDAs, MTAs, industry contracts, and foreign contracts
• Recognize unacceptable contract language; work with legal and sponsor to achieve acceptable contractual clauses
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance and value in providing exceptional customer service to all stakeholders
• Manage multiple, shifting priorities in a deadline-driven environment
• Acquire, maintain, and interpret up-to-date knowledge of funding submission modes, mechanisms and deadlines

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 4 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in MS Office, including extensive and advanced use of MS Excel and MS Word
• Previous experience and demonstrated acumen working with data management software, PeopleSoft, Cognos, etc.
• Experience using internet applications for business and research
• Excellent time management, follow-through, organizational skills, and attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with submission of grant proposals
• Experience working in higher education

Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $52,916-$57,000 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS 010
University Title: BUSINESS OPS ASSOCIATE SR

Application Deadline

Applications will be accepted until this position is filled.

Sponsorship Information

Visa Sponsorship Information: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

Job ID 58840
Location Rolla
Department Office of Sponsored Programs
Job Family Business Support Services
Business Unit Missouri S & T
Posted Date 02/26/2026
Close Date Open Until Filled