Sponsored Programs Specialist

Min T/E Requirements:
Master's degree in a related field or Bachelor's degree and two years related experience. Strong proficiency in Word and Excel software programs. Self-starter who can work on several projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Ability to effectively facilitate teamwork with faculty and staff and relate professionally with local, regional and federal agencies, institutions and partners.

FTE: 1
Hiring Range: $60,000 - $62,000
Position #: 3530
FLSA Status: Exempt
Months per Year: 12

Primary Purpose of Organization Unit:
The Office of Sponsored Research and Programs (OSRP) provides direct support to faculty and staff applying for or receiving funding from an external sponsor (extramural funding).

OSRP serves as the central clearinghouse for all university grant proposals, contracts, and awards and offers pre-award administrative assistance and award setup to the campus community. OSRP is responsible for negotiation and acceptance of awards and for non-financial post-award support of awarded projects.

Primary Purpose of Position:
The Sponsored Programs Specialist (SPS) is responsible for supporting campus departments, sponsors, and subrecipients in a fast-paced, high volume team environment for the submission of proposals for extramurally funded projects on behalf of UNCP.

Job Description:
The Sponsored Programs Specialist (SPS) is responsible for supporting campus departments, sponsors, and subrecipients in a fast-paced, high volume team environment for the submission of proposals for extramurally funded projects on behalf of UNCP.

The work performed by the Sponsored Programs Specialist (SPS) requires an understanding of the types of proposals and grant mechanisms used by funding agencies, the processes for application submission, as well as the terms and conditions of each request for proposal. This knowledge is necessary in order to communicate rules, regulations, and procedures, to faculty members, staff, and stakeholders; as well as to provide support in contracts and grants administration. Duties include collaborating and assisting faculty members, staff, and administrators, acting as a subject-matter expert in research administration; pre-award review and application submissions ensuring compliance with policies, laws, and regulations, and agency guidelines; budget development/review for allowability and financial compliance with all sponsor specific requirements; and facilitating the setup of incoming awards.

The SPS will assist faculty members, staff, and stakeholders with developing sponsored programs and research proposals while following University policies pertaining to application submission. Work involves creating, integrating, applying, and sharing knowledge directly related to a professional field.

Management Preference:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills.
• Excellent editing skills and written communication skills.
• Ability to interpret, explain and apply complicated rules, regulations, and policies.
• Ability to work with personnel from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to meet deadlines and handle stressful situations.
• Ability to learn quickly. Ability to work independently and as a team member.

Job Opening Date: 08/21/2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Posting Category: Professional
Posting Number: EPA01166

Special Instructions to Applicants:
This position is subject to the successful completion of an employment background check. An employment background check includes a criminal background check, employment verification, reference checks, license verification (if applicable) and credit history check (if applicable). In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. New employees are paid only by direct deposit to the financial institution of their choice. Candidates claiming Veterans Preference must attach a copy of their DD-214 as a part of the online application process.

UNC Pembroke is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The University prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibits discrimination against all individuals based on their age, race, color, genetic information, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and national origin. UNC Pembroke is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and seeks priority referrals of protected veterans for our openings.

To apply, visit https://jobs.uncp.edu/postings/13640