IDP Contracts and Grants Specialist II

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY in Wichita, KS seeks a professional to manage and negotiate contracts related to research and grants. The role demands strong organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively with various departments to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in contract management and proposal development, paired with excellent communication and analytical skills. This full-time position is on-site, with a work schedule typically from 8:00AM to 5:00PM, Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in contract management.
• Ability to negotiate and understand contract terms.
• Attention to detail in documentation and proposals.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate diverse proposals and contracts.
• Facilitate compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Provide guidance on proposal development and project administration.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork and interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent in business or accounting

8 years of experience in proposal development or contract negotiating

Job description

Department: Industry and Defense Research Office

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically, 8:00AM – 5:00PM, Monday – Friday. Work is performed on‑site and in person.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Details

The ideal candidate for this position will possess significant experience in contract management, possess strong organizational skills, and will have a deep understanding of contract compliance. In this role you will work closely with the Director of IDP Contracts and Grants as you draft, review, redline and negotiate a broad range of simple and complex contracts that align with university objectives. This position will require strong negotiation skills, a comprehensive understanding of contract terms and strong attention to detail.

Job Summary

Writes, reviews, and negotiates complex contracts pertaining to grants, sponsored research, service activities and/or other initiatives. Facilitates complex grant proposal development and fund sourcing as well as campus training efforts. Researches and interprets regulations, guidelines, and standards and oversees the processing of contracts and/or grants.

Essential Functions

Writes, reviews and negotiates complex contracts, grants, and/or other sponsored awards. Reviews, assembles, and submits complex proposals on behalf of the university. Delivers education and guidance to staff, departments, and administrators in development of competitive proposals and award administration of projects as well as funding policies, rules, and regulations. Researches and facilitates compliance with university, state, and federal laws, policies, and regulations in the daily operations of the contract/grant lifecycle. Advises leadership regarding potential conflicts of interest and time and dispute resolutions. Assists with the production of reports, proposals, and analyses for the University and for federal, state, educational, and other funding and regulatory agencies. Collects and prepares required documentation for proposals and contracts. Develops and reviews budget pertaining to the sponsored award. Collaborates with internal and external partners to finalize representations and certifications, ensuring compliance with export control laws and regulations, and addressing intellectual property issues. Handles compliance tasks to ensure all applicable requirements are met for contracts.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent in business, accounting, or related field.

Eight (8) years of experience in proposal development, research compliance, or contract negotiating at a university, government agency, or complex organization. Every 30 hours of relevant coursework may be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent and personable verbal, presentation, and written communication skills.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a collaborative team member.
• Proficient computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• Good analytical and organizational skills, paying attention to detail, and effective program management.
• Ability to identify and maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• Strong sense of urgency, with the ability to manage competing demands and frequent changes in the work environment, while managing time effectively to meet deadlines.

Physical Requirements

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators.

Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.

Ability to remain in a stationary position.