Remote Research Administration Specialist

University of California - Santa Cruz; California (MO); On-site; USD 107,452,800 - 111,918,979; Full time

Job summary

UC Santa Cruz is seeking a detail-oriented Research Administration Specialist to manage award transactions and fund accounting for faculty research programs. You will ensure compliance with sponsor and UC policies while preparing accurate financial reports.

The role emphasizes data entry, budgeting oversight, and collaboration with Principal Investigators and campus partners. Remote work is available with full benefits under a career appointment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience and/or training.
• Knowledge of sponsor, UC, and institutional research administration policies.
• Knowledge of financial planning, analysis, budgeting, and accounting to administer research portfolios.
• Knowledge of applicable research administration compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated competence in the use of financial systems and tools, including spreadsheets and database software, in financial analysis, fiscal management, and financial reports.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Organizational skills with the ability to manage a significant volume of transactions with strong attention to detail.
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Customer service focus and solid interpersonal skills.
• Ability to use discretion and good judgment when handling confidential information.

Responsibilities

• Maintains working knowledge of university procurement, travel, and financial management systems.
• Provides data entry support for the Research Financial Services (RFS) team, including UC Path entry.
• Processes transactions in campus financial systems as directed, including salary cost transfers.
• Monitors campus system approval queues and directs reports according to RFS work assignments.
• Ensures the accuracy of records and financial files and that all appropriate documentation and authorizations are maintained to comply with federal and state agencies and university regulations.
• Analyzes transactions, expenditures, identifies and resolves discrepancies, financial and inventory reports.
• Maintains working knowledge of compliance regulations in research administration.
• Assists in support of audits as directed by senior staff.

Skills

Research administration

Budgeting

Financial analysis

Compliance knowledge

Spreadsheets

Database software

Critical thinking

Organizational skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Customer service

Discretion

Education

Bachelor's degree in related area

Job description

UC Santa Cruz is seeking a detail-oriented Research Administration Specialist to manage award transactions and fund accounting for faculty research programs. You will ensure compliance with sponsor and UC policies while preparing accurate financial reports.

The role emphasizes data entry, budgeting oversight, and collaboration with Principal Investigators and campus partners. Remote work is available with full benefits under a career appointment.