Contract/Grant Admin Lead

University of Oklahoma; Norman (OK); On-site; USD 70,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oklahoma’s Office of Research Services is seeking a Contract/Grant Admin Lead to oversee complex sponsored research activities. You will lead the development, preparation, and submission of proposals and manage sponsor communications with high independence.

Responsibilities include interpreting solicitations, negotiating documents, and ensuring timely administration of grants and contracts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 48 months experience in sponsored program administration or related experience in an academic institution for higher education.
• CRA or CRA-eligible certification required.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, preparation, and submission of routine and complex proposals for grants and contracts.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, university, and sponsor requirements.
• Serve as advisor to faculty and departments on research administration processes.

Skills

Communication skills

Team leadership

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or CRA-eligible

Job description

Pay Range:

Targeted salary range of from $70,000-$87,000/year, based on education and experience.

Benefits Eligible:

Yes

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (may include some weekends)

Travel:

Not required

Position Introduction:

Join the Office of Research Services (ORS) at the University of Oklahoma as a Contract/Grant Admin Lead, where you will play a key role in supporting complex sponsored research activities. This position provides independent, high-level support across pre-award and non-financial post-award administration for grants and contracts, working closely with Principal Investigators, departmental administrators, and central research administration teams. In this role, you will lead the development, preparation, and submission of routine and complex proposals, ensure compliance with federal, state, university, and sponsor requirements, and serve as a trusted advisor to faculty and departments on research administration processes. The position includes responsibilities such as interpreting sponsor solicitations, facilitating communication with sponsors, preparing documentation for negotiations and award acceptance, and ensuring the timely and accurate administration of sponsored projects. You may also act as a subject matter expert, mentor staff, and serve in a lead or supervisory capacity, including potential signatory authority for grants and awards. This role is based in a standard office work environment and requires strong analytical skills, independent decision-making, and the ability to manage a complex portfolio in a fast-paced research setting.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree.
• 48 months experience in sponsored program administration or related experience in an academic institution for higher education.

Equivalent/ Substitution:

Will accept 48 months of sponsored research experience in lieu of a Bachelor's degree for a total of 96 months experience.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or CRA-eligible

Department Preferences:

• Experience supporting complex sponsored research portfolios in a university, hospital, or nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and negotiate grant proposals, budgets, and contracts.
• Strong working knowledge of federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and university research policies.
• Experience collaborating directly with Principal Investigators and academic departments.
• Familiarity with electronic research administration systems and government submission platforms.
• Ability to interpret complex funding opportunity announcements (RFPs) and translate requirements for stakeholders.
• Proven strength in budget development and compliance-focused proposal review.
• Experience providing training, mentorship, or team leadership in research administration.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills in a multi-tasking environment.

Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check:

Yes