Senior Award Operations Specialist - Hybrid/Remote

Harvard University; Cambridge (AL); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Insurance starting day one

Retirement plans

Tuition assistance

Commuter benefits

Wellbeing resources

Job summary

Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, seeks an Award Specialist to independently manage complex sponsored award notices, interpret sponsor terms, and determine award structures in line with university policy. You will address high‑risk scenarios and ensure data integrity across GMAS and OSP.

Working with researchers and leadership, you will drive compliant processes, provide guidance on regulatory interpretations, and help advance award management best practices in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience.
• Advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex sponsored award notices and determine award structures.
• Evaluate non-standard or high-risk award scenarios and advise stakeholders.
• Ensure data integrity and QA for sponsored projects in GMAS.
• Serve as escalation point for complex award management issues.
• Execute audit and reconciliation routines for award data.
• Lead process improvements in award management and ensure policy alignment.

Skills

Sponsored programs knowledge

Regulatory interpretation

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

GMAS system knowledge

Job description

Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, seeks an Award Specialist to independently manage complex sponsored award notices, interpret sponsor terms, and determine award structures in line with university policy. You will address high‑risk scenarios and ensure data integrity across GMAS and OSP.

Working with researchers and leadership, you will drive compliant processes, provide guidance on regulatory interpretations, and help advance award management best practices in a hybrid work environment.