Sponsored Projects Specialist - Proposals

The Sponsored Projects Specialist (SPS) will provide administrative and analytical support for proposal development and submission and non-financial post-award administration to ensure University-sponsored projects comply with regulatory requirements and adhere to University, federal, state, and private sponsor guidelines. The SPS will assist with proposal preparation, including budget preparation and documentation. The SPS will conduct a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of incoming proposals to determine the extent of campus resource commitments, completeness of proposal and budget, and conformity of proposal to University and sponsor regulations, policies, and requirements. The SPS will have delegated authority to submit proposals on behalf of the University. The SPS will serve as the liaison to funding agencies, interpret program guidelines, policies, and eligibility requirements, and communicate to campus personnel through training presentations and other forms of communication.This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.Salary Range: The budgeted salary range for the position is $70,000 to $85,000.Duties & ResponsibilitiesProposal Review/Administration Review research proposals to ensure institutional compliance with applicable governmental regulations and policies. Provide guidance and expertise to researchers on administrative, financial, and budgeting issues related to funding opportunities, grants, and contracts. Interpret sponsor guidelines and submit proposal applications for external funding to sponsoring agencies. Acts as liaison for University to sponsors, faculty, and staff. Pursue continuing education on issues and developments in the field of research administration. Policies and Procedures Development/Implementation Develop and implement policies and standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with sponsor rules and regulations. Assist in the development and implementation of policies relating to Electronic Research Administration (ERA), i.e., NIH ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace, NSF Research.gov, and other electronic proposal routing and approval programs. Advise faculty and academic unit staff on sponsor policies and procedures and the rules and regulations of the University policies and procedures as they apply to Sponsored Research, including changes thereto. Training/Workshops/Seminars Participate in and/or develop trainings, workshops, and seminars on issues related to sponsored project administration. Assist in preparation of educational materials and communications related to research administration and sponsored project activities. Work with Assistant Director to provide updated information on the OVCR website related to sponsored program and electronic research administration policies and procedures. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree required One to three years’ experience in sponsored program administration, preferably at an institution of higher education and in central or department administration office, office of sponsored programs, office of research administration, university or medical center setting, or federal grant-making agency Knowledge of the federal regulations and guidelines that govern the conduct of research such as Uniform Guidance 2 CFR Part 200 and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). Basic understanding of fund accounting principles    Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree Certification as active Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or comparable certificate Strong computer knowledge of basic information systems (Word, Excel, Adobe, and other database applications) and web applications Fluency in Kuali Coeus research administration applications a plus Demonstrated excellent communication (written and verbal), interpersonal and problem solving skills Ability to lead, participate in and constructively contribute to a team environment Demonstrated success in working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams of external /sponsor and internal individuals APPLICATION: To ensure fullest consideration, application materials must be received by March 13, 2026. Start date is as soon as possible after the close of the search. Salary is commensurate with experience and education. All candidates must create a candidate profile through upload a cover letter, resume  and contact information for three references by the close date.Interested candidates must apply at the following link:As an EOE/AA employer, the University of Illinois encourages applications from individuals regardless of an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, and Veteran or disability status.Offers of employment by the University of Illinois may be subject to approval by the University’s Board of Trustees and are made contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of any criminal background checks and other pre-employment assessments that may be required for the position being offered. Additional information regarding such pre-employment checks and assessments may be provided as applicable during the hiring process.The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit: Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Created: 2026-03-04