Code
5294
PCLS
N3050
Pay Grade
119
Exempt
Yes
ORP
No
EEO Code
3
Title
Grants Specialist
Description

The Grants Specialist of the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR) manages non-financial post-award activities for MSU's portfolio of grants using knowledge of grant management rules and regulations, technical expertise, and analytical skills. This position reports to the Director of the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research.

Examples

Provides assistance to researchers in coordinating activities of the sponsored program.

Works collaboratively and cooperatively with other staff in the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research and the Division of Administration and Finance office to provide seamless support to researchers for all sponsored-programs related needs, including budgeting of sponsored awards, communicating all grant terms and conditions to the researcher, and training researchers and relevant departmental staff in how to manage and implement a grant.

Coordinates with the Business Office to support award set up, reporting, budget modifications, no-cost extension requests, and closeouts.

Monitors deadlines and assists PIs with reporting: provides review of financial reports, assists with effort reporting compliance, and provides support and assistance for technical reports.

Works with various offices to ensure all compliance policies and practices are followed and completed during the grants life cycle, including financial conflict of interest reporting, effort reporting, responsible conduct of research training, etc. May conduct workshops or one-on-one trainings.

Stays up to date on federal funders and the policy and practice for pursuing and holding federal grants; works together with other OSPR staff and university offices to ensure institutional compliance.

Maintains complete and accurate records of all active grants.

Administers post-award aspects of MSU intramural grants, including keeping internal OSPR records of intramural grant budgets, maintaining equipment inventory, and providing guidance to researchers on approved expenses.

Plans and teaches workshops and grants-related trainings and events; participates in planning annual research recognition banquet, symposia, etc.

Performs related duties as required.

Physical Condition

Sufficient dexterity, agility, and physical condition to perform routine office tasks.

Experience

Three years of work-related grants and contracts experience OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Previous university experience preferred.

Knowledge

Basic mathematical proficiency required; experience with interpreting and managing budgets preferred. Proficiency with MS Office Suite software required, particularly Excel. Previous grant or research administration experience preferred. Ability to analyze and interpret federal and non-federal regulations; ability to use and assist others with using multiple internal and external systems used in research administration; ability to interface effectively with multiple faculty and staff on issues within the area of sponsored research in a cooperative, responsible manner.

Education

Bachelor’s degree required.

Additional Requirements

Requires the ability to work well with diverse populations and maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must be a self-starter, independently motivated, and comfortable working autonomously. Must possess organizational, time management, prioritization, and project management skills to work under the pressure of internal and external deadlines in a calm, efficient and confident manner.Must be able to work independently on difficult or complex assignments, understand and interpret pertinent policies and procedures clearly and accurately, and establish and maintain effective working relations with administrators, faculty, staff, funding agencies, and other stakeholders. Excellent written and verbal communication skills required. *Regular reliable attendance is required. *This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. *Grant funded position.

Standard Requirements

Requires the ability to maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Texas Values Journey. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Regular reliable attendance is required.

This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. Position is designated as a Responsible Employee as outlined by Title IX. May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.

Last Updated 09-17-2020