Grants Specialist

The Western Psychiatric Hospital Office of Grants and Contracts (OGC) is seeking individuals to join a diverse group of research administrators serving the University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry. As a top-funded Psychiatry department, our faculty are engaged in groundbreaking mental health research. The OGC is a dynamic and collaborative group that manages the fiscal operations of the department and works with university faculty members in all aspects of research grant administration. The level of this role (Specialist I or Specialist II) will be determined based on experience at the time of offer.

Responsibilities

• Manages and monitors budget and expenditure activities associated with funded sponsored projects in accordance with University and sponsor regulations (Post-Award).
• Produces monthly financial reports by grant with projections of expenses using the Department’s Financial Software System.
• Reviews and analyzes accounts to identify projected balances, potential deficits, potential issues, burn rates, upcoming deadlines, and accurate payroll distribution.
• Prepares budget adjustments, expense transfers, account forecasting, effort reporting, account closeout, and effort distribution, providing sufficient explanations that will meet internal and external audit requirements.
• Required to maintain confidentiality of classified and sensitive information.
• Ensures compliance with financial and administrative award terms and conditions.
• Remains current and knowledgeable on institutional agency, University, and UPMC procedures and requirements concerning grants management issues.
• Manages multiple responsibilities and duties with interruptions and unforeseen changes without risking detail and quality of work.
• Works independently and in teams.
• Responds to inquiries in a timely manner using effective interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to address questions and/or concerns with diverse groups of faculty, staff, and students.
• Acts as a resource to research investigators and staff on sponsor policies and regulations regarding the administration of award funds and assists in resolutions when necessary.
• Prepares account activations when needed.
• Direct daily contact and interaction with sponsors, pass-through entities, subrecipients, and various PITT/UPMC staff and departments.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Grant Specialist I: Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Accounting, Finance, or related field). One year of experience working with grants management in an academic setting or experience working in finance, accounting, or budget management.
• Grant Specialist II: Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Accounting, Finance, or related field). Three years of experience working with grants management in an academic setting or experience working in finance, accounting, or budget management.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances

• Act 34