
location_on750, Weaver Dairy Road, Carol Woods, Chapel Hill, Orange County, North Carolina, 27514, United States
The Sponsored Programs Specialist (SPS) serves as the central point of contact for pre- and post-award activities at UNC-Chapel Hill, supporting a fast-paced, high-volume team environment. This role is critical for ensuring the administrative, financial, and compliance integrity of sponsored programs across the university. You will act as a subject-matter expert in research administration, collaborating closely with faculty, principal investigators, departmental administrators, and external sponsors to manage the full lifecycle of grants, contracts, and subcontracts.
In this position, you will navigate complex regulatory landscapes, including the Uniform Guidance, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and specific agency guidelines. Your work ensures that proposal submissions, budget development, and award negotiations are accurate and compliant, protecting the university from financial risks such as audit disallowances. As an Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR), you will review and submit proposals, negotiate terms and conditions, and oversee the financial setup and administration of incoming awards. The role demands a high degree of accuracy and independent judgment to maintain UNC-Chapel Hill's high standards of customer service and regulatory compliance.
Work model: Remote
750, Weaver Dairy Road, Carol Woods, Chapel Hill, Orange County, North Carolina, 27514, United States
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Knowledge of government regulations, cost principles, and administrative requirements applicable to contracts and grants, including FAR, CFR, and other research compliance requirements (e.g., Export Control, Conflict of Interest, Human Subjects, Animal Subjects, Research Science and Security, Ethics Training). Previous experience in research administration (either pre-award, post-award, or a combination) as a grant/research administrator in a university or nonprofit setting. Previous experience in contract negotiations. Certified Research Administrator (CRA) credentials.