Pre-Award Specialist, Graduate Studies and Research

Grants and Contracts Development is the central office responsible for supporting faculty and staff principal investigators/project directors to submit proposals to external sponsors, particularly federal, state, and local agencies.

About the Role

The Pre-Award Specialist facilitates the proposal development process with faculty and staff principal investigators/project directors. This includes interpreting sponsor guidance, preparing budgets, completing forms, assembling applications, and monitoring internal approvals and compliance items. With proficiency in federal regulations, knowledge of the federal funding landscape, and awareness of institutional policies and procedures, the Pre-Award Specialist shares knowledge and guides proposal teams, leading to compliant and competitive submissions.

This is a full-time, exempt position, which will lead toward permanent status following the successful completion of a probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Interpret sponsor guidance for proposal development
• Prepare budgets and complete required forms
• Assemble and review applications for compliance and completeness
• Monitor internal approvals and compliance items
• Guide proposal teams on federal regulations, institutional policies, and procedures

Qualifications

The level of this position (Research and Sponsored Programs Administration Professional II or III) will depend on the finalist meeting the minimum qualifications. Both levels are outlined in the position description.

Pay

• Level II
  • Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $6,031 - $6,400 per month
  • CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,797 - $8,445 per month
• Level III
  • Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $6,510 - $6,908 per month
  • CSU Classification Salary Range: $6,382 - $9,297 per month

Salary is commensurate with the background and experience of the individual selected.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Retirement benefits through CalPERS
• Tuition waiver
• Vacation and sick leave
• 15 paid holidays per year (14 scheduled and 1 personal holiday)

A comprehensive benefits summary is available via the Benefits Portal. The CSU Total Compensation Calculator demonstrates the significance of the benefits package.

Schedule

This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.

About the Organization

California State University San Marcos is a mid-size university located in San Diego's vibrant North County. We are dedicated to service, innovation, leadership, and student success. Our attentive faculty and state-of-the-art facilities offer students hundreds of opportunities to learn, lead, play, and serve. As a new kind of university, we push the boundaries of innovation to prepare tomorrow's leaders, build stronger communities, and solve pressing issues. Cutting-edge research meets hands-on application at our campus and in the real world.