New

Sr. Grants & Contracts Specialist (Pre-Award)

University of Missouri-Columbia
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Columbia
801 Conley Avenue (Show on map)
Jan 13, 2026
Hiring Department Dean of Engineering Job Description The MU College of Engineering Research Administration (ERA) seeks an experienced and motivated pre-award research administration professional to join our team and play an instrumental role in the growth and success of the college. The College of Engineering has a robust research culture, and the goal of growing significantly in the coming years. The ERA is critical to this effort. The person in this position will work directly with faculty and staff; work under strict deadlines; manage a variety of tasks and projects; and handle sensitive information. The primary responsibilities include the following: Prepare and/or facilitate the preparation of complex proposals for grants and contracts. This may include the following: Budget, including cost-share Budget justification Compliance documentation Completing sponsor-required forms Interpreting sponsor guidelines to ensure compliance Entering proposals into PeopleSoft, generating and routing the ePSRS Communicate and coordinate with collaborators from inside and outside the institution, and their grant staff to fulfill sub-recipient requirements Liaise with the Sponsored Programs Administration (SPA) Assist with post-submission requests for budget revisions, supporting documentation, etc. Help train and mentor grants and contracts staff Maintain and establish research administration processes and procedures, and best practices Provide information regarding grant policies to faculty and staff Maintain knowledge of existing laws, policies and procedures necessary to comply with Federal, State, University and sponsor regulations concerning grants and contracts Traits necessary in this fast-paced environment: Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills Proficient in Excel, Word, PeopleSoft Grants Module Detail-oriented for tracking submissions and successes Strong organizational and time management skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team Self-directed, customer-focused, and personable Strong problem-solving skills Positive attitude Shift Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm with occasional evening or weekends for special projects. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 3 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Research administrator certification Five years of grants and contracts or related research administration experience Five years of experience with PeopleSoft Grants Module Anticipated Hiring Range Salary commensurate with education and experience. Salary range: $52,915 - $66,000 per year Grade: GGS-9E University Title: BUSINESS SERVICES CONSULTANT Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. Application Materials Application Resume Cover Letter Benefit Eligibility This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.