Manager, Post Award Operations

Financial Services

The Manager, Post Award Operations is responsible for leadership, oversight, and management of the operational functions of the Office of Contract and Grant Accounting (OCGA) related to sponsored awards. The position manages the University’s post-award administration activities and supervises staff responsible for a diverse portfolio. The manager also serves as a key liaison across campus and to external agencies.

UMBC offers competitive compensation. This role starts at $87,000 and has over 4 weeks of vacation for regular full time roles. Tuition remission is also available.

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A hybrid telework schedule may be available.

• Manage and oversee all post-award operational activities including award setup, award modifications, sponsor invoicing, financial reporting, accounts receivable management, collections, and award closeouts.
• Supervise and mentor professional staff responsible for sponsored project administration.
• Monitor operational metrics and performance indicators, prepare management reports and recommend process improvements.
• Collaborate with the Director, Assistant Director for Cost Accounting and Compliance and others on the team on initiatives and improvements.

Education Required: Bachelor's degree preferably in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.

• At least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in sponsored projects accounting, research administration, grants management, or post‑award administration.
• Three (3) years of supervisory, team lead, or management experience overseeing professional staff.
• Experience interpreting and applying federal regulations, Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), sponsor terms and conditions, and institutional policies governing sponsored programs.
• Experience overseeing award setup, financial reporting, sponsor billing, accounts receivable management, collections, and closeout activities.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret complex financial information and communicate findings and recommendations to diverse stakeholders.
• Experience developing and improving operational processes, establishing internal controls, and implementing corrective actions.
• Experience working with Peoplesoft, or other electronic finance research administration systems, creating moderately complex reports and queries, and departmental level extramural support preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams, and financial reporting tools.

Education, Licensure, Certification Preferred:

• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA)
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.

Experience Preferred:

• Experience in higher education sponsored program administration
• Experience managing a large and diverse sponsored projects portfolio involving federal, state, and private sponsors.
• Experience leading organizational change initiatives, system implementations, or business process redesign efforts.

A background check will be required.

Open Until Filled

UMBC offers a rich benefits package. Regular and grant funded regular positions (Full benefits summary ):

• 22 Days of Annual Leave
• 15 Days of Sick Leave
• 15 Holidays
• 3 Personal Days

Tuition Remission:

• 8 credit hours per semester
• Tuition remission at UMBC for eligible dependents after two years of FT employment

Additional Benefits:

• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement plans (including the choice of joining the pension plan)
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness opportunities
• & Much more

Salary: $87,000 - $98,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education,…