Research Finance Compliance Specialist

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. 

JOB SUMMARY

The Research Finance Compliance Specialist supports the functions of the central NU-RES Finance office within Northeastern University Research Enterprise Services (NU-RES) by assisting with the oversight of financial operations and processes of the research portfolio. Under the supervision of the Senior Compliance Specialist, the Compliance Specialist is responsible for assisting with Effort Reporting functions, reviewing Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) forms, and monitoring other research compensation processes for the portfolio.

The Research Finance Compliance Specialist acts as the authorized approver of PDCs in the K2 system and is responsible for verifying salary costs are timely, allocable, and properly justified for the work being performed on the projects. This position requires post-award knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements. The specialist ensures that the effort and salary allocations follow applicable federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies. Other core duties include assisting with the University’s annual payroll certification process, summer salary reviews, organizing supporting documentation in SharePoint, preparing monthly metrics, and performing internal post-audit checks. 

The Research Finance Compliance Specialist is expected to use independent judgement and discretion in reviewing payroll expenses, working collaboratively with HR Payroll, Department/College administrators, Principal Investigators, and other NU-RES personnel. The specialist must be able to use VPN and work completely electronically to perform their role. They are expected to work in various electronic systems, be technologically savvy, and able to navigate through the financial system (Banner), proposal systems (COEUS, eCLAWS) and HR systems (Workday & K2). 

This role must treat effective compliance as an equal priority, stay abreast of sponsor rules, regulations, and policy changes, as well as institutional best practices in research administration and finance. Participate in sponsored research initiatives and projects as assigned, as well as lead the adoption of best practices to promote continuous improvement making sure that the highest quality standards are met.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• BS/BA in a related field is required
• 2 years Research administration experience required
• In lieu of degree, 4 years of Research administration experience required
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required, with the ability to interact with management and senior leadership
• Knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced operations group, prioritize duties, and meet deadlines 
• Must be able to work effectively both independently and in a collaborative environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Sharepoint, Outlook, and other analytical tools and workflows
• Proven customer service skills and keen organizational skills

JOB DUTIES

Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) Reviews (50%)

• Review incoming PDC requests in K2 for compliance with federal regulations and sponsor’s terms and conditions. Validate costs are allowable by reviewing Banner budgets, Award Notice, Proposal documents (COEUS), etc.
• Verify PDCs are timely, allocable, and properly justified for the work being performed on the projects. Ensure federally mandated salary caps are calculated properly. 
• Work closely with PIs and Departments to reinforce policies and best practices.

Annual Certification & Other Compensation Procedures (25%)

• Work with Senior Compliance Specialist and Business Analyst to kick off annual certification process. Log and file completed certification documentation in SharePoint and assist with recertification requests. 
• Assist with off-contract compensation reviews during summer salary season.
• Prepare ad-hoc reports for grants with specific effort/labor monitoring requirements. 
• Provide support with NURES trainings as needed.

Metrics Reporting & Post-Audit Reviews (20%)

• Distribute metrics reports to NURES leadership to assist with operational flows.
• Review Cognos payroll reports for high-level grant compliance checks. Contact departments to remove salary posting to grants in closeout status. 

Audits and Special Projects (5%)

• Support all internal/external audits, site visits, and desk reviews. Ensure proper documentation is collected and submitted appropriately.

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.