The University of Pittsburgh, Department of Neurology, seeks a qualified Senior Financial Research Specialist to support research operations.
The successful candidate will independently provide high-level financial oversight and strategic support for sponsored research projects and clinical studies. This role ensures compliance with sponsor, institutional, and regulatory requirements while managing complex research portfolios and advising faculty. By the fifth month of employment, the individual is expected to demonstrate the ability to perform duties with a high degree of autonomy.
Key Responsibilities and Qualifications:
- Provide expert financial guidance during proposal development, including budget justification and allowability analysis
- Ability to interpret and apply sponsor guidelines, institutional policies, and regulatory requirements including contract terms and conditions
- Manage financial administration for a portfolio of sponsored research awards (federal, state, foundation and industry)
- Ability to provide accurate and timely post-award financial reconciliations to supervisors and team members
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively while meeting established deadlines
- Highly analytical
Work Arrangement:
This position may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement following an initial 2–3 day per week on-campus training period.
Performs pre- and post-award accounting duties for very complex grants and contracts. Prepares, negotiates, and monitors very complex grants, contracts, subcontracts, and budgets. Prepares complex government applications and reports and interprets policy and procedure. Monitors account activity, performs internal audits, processes budget modifications, analyzes financials, and reviews routine reports. Develops and implements accounting techniques and procedures for operational improvements and assists with managing special projects and preparing operating budgets.
Independent work for the following areas: Grants & Contracts Submission, Clinical Trial Budget Negotiations, Project Monitoring/Reconciliation, Project Administration, Ensure Compliance with grant requirements, Managing timelines and deliverables, Prepares Financial reports/project narratives/documents.
Must be able to get around a university setting. Mostly sedentary.
The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.
Job Details
- Assignment Category: Full-time regular
- Job Classification: Staff.Grants & Contracts Specialist IV (Pre & Post-Award)
- Job Family: Research
- Job Sub-Family: Grants & Contracts
- Campus: Pittsburgh
- Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree
- Minimum Years of Experience Required: 3
- Substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.
- Work Schedule: M-F, 8:30-5:00
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid: Combination of On-Campus and Remote work as determined by the department.
- Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications
- Relocation Offered: No
- Visa Sponsorship Provided: No
- Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check
- Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
- Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter
- Optional Documents: Not Applicable