Grant & Contract Officer

About the Opportunity

Northeastern University’s Research Enterprise Services (NU-RES) provides leadership and expertise to faculty, investigators and college administrators in support of research and sponsored programs at Northeastern University.   NU -- a dynamic, innovative, and entrepreneurial university with a diverse and growing research portfolio -- seeks to hire talented, experienced administrators who are dedicated to supporting investigators secure and manage their extramurally sponsored activities.  The University is committed to hiring and developing personnel who enjoy working in a high-performing culture that rewards excellence.  To learn more about Northeastern’s unique academic environment and generous benefits please see: http://www.northeastern.edu/hrm/.  Northeastern is a global university and NU-RES supports its team working remotely. Remote locations and work schedules are determined based on operational needs and in consultation with Team members, consistent with University policies and guidance.

Reporting to the Associate Director, the Grant & Contract Officer is the point of contact and primary resource for the faculty, department staff and funding agencies, providing guidance on University and funding agency policies and regulations.  The Grant & Contract Officer works in partnership with faculty, University staff and funding agencies by facilitating the coordination and flow of information in support of effective administration of sponsored programs throughout the entire program lifecycle. 

Responsibilities include: advise and assist researchers and administrative staff on the proposal submission process including providing guidance on federal regulations, agency requirements, internal policies and procedures, and budget development; review of proposals to a wide range of federal, state, local government agencies, and private foundation sponsors to ensure conformance to funding agency and University requirements prior to signature/release by authorized organizational representative to ensure that proposals are submitted accurately and in a timely manner. Conduct institutional review of notices of award providing critical analysis of terms and conditions of federal and non-federal sponsored awards; in conjunction with Associate Director, conduct negotiation of awards on behalf of the University; monitoring for regulatory compliance with the funding agency’s terms and conditions of award from acceptance through closeout.  Collaborate with University legal counsel, Office of Institutional Compliance and other NU offices as needed.  Provide non-financial post-award administration.  Serve as a source of information on sponsor and University polices and regulations.  The Grant & Contract Officer will offer effective analytical and creative problem-solving skills and the ability to manage a high volume of work in a fast-paced, deadline driven work environment. 

Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.  Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, time sensitive environment preferred.  Must have solid judgment and capacity to exercise discretion to resolve ambiguity and promote effective solutions.  Must have a strong commitment to constructively contribute to a customer service environment, providing professional, timely, efficient, and courteous service to the university research community. 

Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in the field of research administration in an academic or non-profit setting is required. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Knowledge of government grant regulations, agency policies, and familiarity with customary policies and procedures of an institute of higher education, and experience with the use of Grants.Gov, NSF Research.gov, NIH eRA Commons / ASSIST a plus.

20% - Review of funding applications to federal, state, local government agencies, private foundations and industry/corporate sponsors to ensure compliance with applicable regulations, University policies, and program solicitation.  Assist faculty and administrative staff with development of proposal; explanation of agency guidelines, budgeting, and internal processes.

35% - Review and process sponsored awards and ensure timely entry in University systems.  Coordinates with other University offices to ensure compliance with University policies; responsible for interpretation of federal and non-federal rules and regulations, export controls clauses, and intellectual property rights as they relate to sponsored awards.   

35% - Provide non-financial award administration during the life of an award, including, but not limited to, submission of progress reports, processing and approval of advance account requests, no-cost extensions, changes to scope of work, changes in key personnel, and assistance in the submission of annual/final progress reports.  Function as liaison with funding agencies and manage coordination between other units within NU-RES and faculty/department administrators.

10% - Develop expert knowledge of research administration necessary to provide assistance as the point of contact for the University research community.  Engage in University-wide professional development activities, i.e. training, workshops, and developing resources useful for customers.  Participate in special projects assigned by NU-RES.  

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

Expected Hiring Range:

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.