Job Description
Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Business Office in the College of Engineering is seeking an intermediate-level Research Administrator to join a team that provides administrative and financial management in the post-award phase of sponsored research projects. There is a significant emphasis on budgeting and accounting activity in this position. This position is a critical resource to faculty and assures sound stewardship of sponsored research dollars. The successful candidate will have a strong customer service focus and be a self-starter who can work independently and as part of a team.
This position provides financial and administrative management and analysis for sponsored project budgets within the College of Engineering. Provides pre- & post-award research administration, ensuring all activities are completed in compliance with associated local, state, federal & institutional rules & regulations. Completes expenditure analysis, approvals, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures.
This position may have the opportunity to work a hybrid work schedule (where a mix of in-person work from a Boise State worksite and an alternative work location within the state of Idaho is utilized). It will not be eligible for out of state or fully remote work.
Level Scope:
Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance and assistance to entry level professionals and/or support employees.
Essential Functions:
90% of Time the Research Administrator must:
Pre-award & Award Setup:
- Review, analyze, and edit budgets and budget justifications to assist departmental faculty with proposal submissions to various federal and non-federal sponsors.
- Work with the principal investigators (PI) during the budget review to ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and university policies.
- Review and approve all budget-related documentation in the proposal routing system.
- Submit advance spending requests to the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) as appropriate.
- Complete internal cost share form for proposals.
- Assist in the setup of the award, including providing surplus/deficit accounts, indirect cost (F&A) allocation accounts, and determining the number of projects needed for the award.
Post-award:
- Monitor expenses and revenues for grants; identify, research and correct errors on a timely basis to ensure costs are consistently and properly allocated.
- Provide principal investigators with regular (e.g. monthly) budget status reports summarizing expenditures to date and projected expenditures through the end of the budget period; advise on potential budgetary problems. Work with PIs f to resolve or mitigate deficit project budget.
- Process employee forms as assigned by the college, including employee costing changes, hires, additional compensation, and separations
- Initiate and process payment requests as assigned by the college, including requisitions, independent contractors, and invoice payments
- Review and process invoices submitted by subrecipients under subaward agreements to ensure completeness and compliance with institutional and sponsor requirements.
- Manage cost share commitments by working with departments for funding sources, ensuring costs are appropriately expended, and resolving complex issues regarding commitments.
- Submit budget adjustment requests (BAR) to the OSP as appropriate.
- Initiate and submit No-Cost Extension (NCE) requests and expense transfers in collaboration with the PI.
- Serve as the primary administrative liaison for sponsored project award closeout activities, ensuring all closeout requirements are completed in a timely manner.
- Assist PIs with reviewing payroll verification reports for accuracy.
- Compile available funding sources and effort needs for PI summer salary requests. Work with the PI (and interdepartmental staff as needed) to finalize summer salary plans and submit appropriate HR required forms.
Communication and Compliance:
- Provide guidance and counsel on complex research administration matters to principal investigators and department administrators including compliance regulations.
- Collaborate with the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP), college leadership, and P2P (Procure-to-Pay) to ensure compliance with university and granting agency policies. Advise department faculty and staff on university and granting agency policies.
- Review and remain current with all new and existing Federal and State regulations, including attending applicable webinars, external training, and university-specific training.
- Provide documentation and information in support of OSP audits.
- Collaborate with principal investigators in developing plans (and contingency plans) to meet identified needs; provide general guidance and counsel on a wide variety of routine research administration matters to principal investigators, senior unit administrators, and less experienced unit staff.
- Interpret regulations and guidelines for program funding (both university and agency) for grants with various complexities. Ensure compliance with regulations through application of regulation and guideline knowledge.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and provide recommendations for leadership review.
- Maintain the security and confidentiality of all grant accounts and records.
10% of Time the Research Administrator
- Performs other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
- Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, laws, and regulations
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to research problems/issues to formulate solutions
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Demonstrated skill in accounting, management, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Adapt to changing assignments and multiple priorities
- Ability to plan work, set priorities, and respond to pressures, deadlines, and changes in schedules and priorities.
- Interact effectively as a member of a team and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively, independently, and as a team member.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive information
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years of professional experience or equivalent relevant experience.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary range is $55,057.60 to $62,400 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):
Required Application Materials:
To be considered for this position, please submit the following material:
- Cover letter indicating your interest and qualifications for the position
- Resume with employment history (including dates of employment)
- Three professional references with contact information
About Us:
Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.
We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.
Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/
