Departmental Research Administration; DRA Manager

Departmental Research Administration (DRA) Manager

The Departmental Research Administration (DRA) Manager is a professional staff member of Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) at Portland State University (PSU). The role leads a team of Departmental Research Administrators who provide financial and budget administration support to Principal Investigators of sponsored projects, ensuring compliance with institutional, state, sponsor, and federal policies throughout the lifecycle of sponsored projects.

Key responsibilities include supervising, training, and mentoring DRAs, managing workload, resolving complex issues escalated from the team, and ensuring the fulfillment of post‑award obligations and commitments.

The position is based at PSU’s downtown campus in Portland, with flexible scheduling and limited remote work opportunities as permitted by policy.

Bachelor’s degree and three or more years of related experience. A Master’s degree may substitute for a portion of the experience requirements.

• Interpreting and applying federal and state laws and regulations, including financial management of sponsored awards.
• Using financial accounting or fund accounting systems.
• Knowledge of federal regulations governing research (e.g., OMB Uniform Guidance, Federal Acquisition Regulations, sponsor policies).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to learn quickly, apply creativity, understand complex processes and procedures, prioritize workload, set and meet deadlines, and perform well with a minimum of direct supervision.
• Commitment to excellent customer service and focus on customer support.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to learn quickly, apply creativity, understand complex processes and procedures, prioritize workload, set and meet deadlines, and perform well with a minimum of direct supervision.
• Commitment to excellent customer service and focus on customer support.
• Ability to monitor and communicate project status, keeping multiple projects on track.
• Interpersonal skills for inter‑departmental communication and team building in a complex institutional setting.
• Computer and technical skills: proficiency in Google, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), scheduling and email programs, financial information systems, and the ability to troubleshoot systems and learn new applications quickly.
• Ability to communicate ideas, thoughts, and meaning clearly and diplomatically with all levels of the university, sponsors, and audit agencies.
• Independent judgment, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills; proactive planning to resolve problems and implement viable solutions.
• Diplomatic and assertive interpersonal self‑management, fostering harmonious working relationships, maintaining positive morale, and motivating productivity.
• Coaching skills for developing team dynamics, facilitating empowerment, and fostering creativity.

• Experience in sponsored projects administration at a higher‑education institution.
• Supervisory experience.
• Certificate in Research Administration (CRA).

• Create an environment that acknowledges, encourages, and celebrates differences.
• Function and communicate effectively and respectfully within diverse contexts.
• Seek opportunities to gain experience working and collaborating in multicultural settings.
• Adhere to PSU’s policies on prohibited discrimination & harassment and professional standards of conduct.

Contribute to a culture of environmental stewardship, practice resource conservation, and work toward long‑term sustainability goals.

Monday - Friday, 40 hours per week.

The salary for this position ranges from $65,100 to $83,556 per year, subject to negotiation based on experience, skills, and internal equity. The benefits package includes a 95% premium‑paid health care, a generous retirement and vacation plan, and reduced tuition rates for employees, spouses, or dependents at Oregon University System schools.

More details can be accessed through PSU’s online compensation calculator.