Grants Negotiator & Pre-Award Contracts Lead

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Grants Officer I to join the Sponsored Projects Administration, Pre-Award. You will independently negotiate contracts, manage complex awards, and mentor newer staff. Signatory authority to bind the University may be exercised within defined limits.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience, with deep knowledge of external funding policies and contract processes. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience.
• Knowledge of external funding, finance, and administration policies.
• Ability to draft contracts and agreements.
• Strong communication and deadline-driven work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Reviews grant contracts for compliance with rules and policies; mentors junior staff.
• Manages contracts from pre‑award to close‑out; mentors junior staff.
• Ensures compliance with agency guidelines and regulations; verifies budgets.
• Interprets agency requirements and documents policies.
• Negotiates and authorizes contracts; liaises with funding agencies and faculty.
• Serves as liaison between funding agencies and faculty on complex questions.

Skills

Contract negotiations

Grants administration

Stakeholder communication

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

The University of Georgia is seeking a Grants Officer I to join the Sponsored Projects Administration, Pre-Award. You will independently negotiate contracts, manage complex awards, and mentor newer staff. Signatory authority to bind the University may be exercised within defined limits.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience, with deep knowledge of external funding policies and contract processes. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.