Position Title: Sponsored Programs Manager
Position Overview: Under the general direction of the Executive Director, the Sponsored Programs Manager applies a strong accounting foundation and customer service focus to oversee all pre- and post-award financial and administrative functions related to sponsored projects. This position provides structured financial oversight, ensures institutional and sponsor compliance, and supports operational efficiency through accurate reporting and fiscal control. The Manager leads a team of analysts, manages complex award portfolios, and serves as the primary point of contact between faculty, sponsoring agencies, and internal administrative offices. The role requires precision, clear communication, and a willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic research administration environment.
Reports to: Executive Director
Pay Range: $100-$125k
Essential Job Functions
Leadership and Oversight
• Supervise, train, and evaluate grants and contracts analysts and administrative staff.
• Establish workload priorities, performance benchmarks, and compliance expectations.
• Develop and enforce standardized policies and procedures for proposal development, award management, and compliance control.
• Ensure financial and operational integrity of sponsored research activities through oversight and continuous process improvement.
Pre-Award Administration
• Serve as the final departmental authority on all proposal submissions before routing to the Office of Research Administration.
• Review and approve proposals for accuracy, content, compliance, and adherence to sponsor and institutional guidelines.
• Guide and advise Principal Investigators (PIs) in proposal development, budget construction, and justification documentation.
• Oversee coordination of multi-institutional submissions, subaward components, and cost-sharing arrangements.
Post-Award Administration
• Direct all post-award operations, including award setup, account establishment, and budget allocation.
• Oversee financial management, expenditure review, and reconciliation of sponsored funds.
• Authorize complex transactions such as cost transfers, re-budgeting, and subcontract payments.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of financial and progress reports.
• Manage and review award closeouts, ensuring full compliance and accurate financial closure.
Compliance and Risk Management
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional regulations, including Uniform Guidance and sponsor-specific requirements.
• Lead compliance monitoring, internal reviews, and risk assessments related to sponsored projects.
• Act as departmental liaison during audits, reviews, and agency site visits.
• Maintain oversight of compliance in effort certification, conflict of interest, subrecipient monitoring, and research integrity.
Financial Analysis and Reporting
• Conduct advanced financial analysis, forecasting, and trend monitoring of the grants portfolio.
• Provide the Executive Director and leadership with regular reports on funding activity, financial health, and compliance metrics.
• Develop analytical tools and dashboards for portfolio management and performance tracking.
Collaboration and Communication
• Serve as the primary departmental contact with the Office of Research Administration, Corporate Financial Services, and sponsoring agencies.
• Communicate regulatory changes, funding trends, and compliance updates to faculty and staff.
• Promote standardization of research administration practices across divisions and departments.
Other Responsibilities
• Lead strategic initiatives to enhance grant management efficiency and compliance infrastructure.
• Support implementation of new systems, workflow automation, and policy integration efforts.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
Requirements
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred (e.g., MBA, MPA, or related field).
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in grants and contracts administration.
• Proficiency with research administration systems (e.g., Cayuse, PeopleSoft, LOC (Letter of credit drawdowns), ERA systems).
• Proven ability to manage large, multi-sponsor portfolios and direct staff in high-volume environments.
• Advanced knowledge of federal cost principles, sponsor regulations, and post-award management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, establish accountability, and maintain compliance under stringent deadlines.
Desired Qualifications
• Master's degree preferred.
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or equivalent credential.
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Deep understanding of federal and non-federal sponsor guidelines and regulatory frameworks.
• Expertise in financial modeling, audit practices, and research compliance.
• Proficiency with enterprise financial systems and electronic research administration platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills.
The incumbent must demonstrate an interest or ability in working in a multicultural/multiethnic environment. A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the UAS. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or the continued employment of current UAS employees who apply for the position.
Review of applications/resumes will begin October 10, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled; however, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications/resumes are received. A cover letter and resume are required.
UAS hires only those individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requested accommodations should be made in advance to the UAS Human Resources Department.
Cal State LA University Auxiliary Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
