Assistant Pre-Award Research Administrator

$51,000 - $81,500/Yr

Pennsylvania State University

Full-time - Mid Level

Educational Services

About the position

The Strategic Interdisciplinary Research Office (SIRO) at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking an Assistant Pre-Award Research Administrator (Proposal and Award Generalist - Intermediate/Advanced Professional). This position is designed for a highly skilled professional who will be responsible for preparing and submitting a wide variety of proposals, ranging from small to large, in a dynamic, fast-paced, and multifaceted environment. The selected individual will lead the proposal submission process, which includes a thorough review of proposals for University signature and submission to various entities such as government agencies, industry, and foundations. In this role, the Assistant Pre-Award Research Administrator will review and interpret sponsor and University guidelines, policies, and funding announcements to effectively advise and guide faculty, staff, and proposal development and project management teams. The individual will also be responsible for advising faculty and staff on all aspects of proposal development and submission requirements, preparing proposal subsections including budgets and non-technical components as indicated in the solicitation, and obtaining necessary departmental, College, and University approvals. Additionally, the selected individual will serve as a pre-award liaison with sponsors, external research partners, Central offices, Institutes, Departments, and Colleges across the University. Maintaining positive and effective working relationships with assigned teams, research administration units, sponsors, and faculty is crucial for success in this position. The work arrangement is remote-eligible, with standard working hours set from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the eastern time zone.

Responsibilities

• Lead the proposal submission process, including thorough review of proposals for University signature and submission to various entities.
• Review and interpret sponsor and University guidelines, policies, and funding announcements to advise faculty and staff.
• Advise faculty and staff in all aspects of proposal development and submission requirements.
• Prepare proposal subsections including budgets and non-technical components as indicated in the solicitation.
• Obtain departmental, College, and University approvals as required.
• Serve as a pre-award liaison with sponsors, external research partners, and various University departments.
• Maintain positive and effective working relationships with assigned teams, research administration units, sponsors, and faculty.

Requirements

• For Intermediate Professional: Associate's degree and 2+ years of related experience.
• For Advanced Professional: Bachelor's degree or higher and 3+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Pre-Award research administration experience is expected.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with electronic proposal submission sites.
• Experience with Strategic Information Management System (SIMS) and SIMS budgets.
• Graduate of Penn State ACOR Certification and Education Series (ACES) is preferred.
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or desire to obtain certification is encouraged.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Retirement plans.
• Tuition discounts (75% discount for spouse and children).
• Paid holidays.