Financial Research Administrator

Job Description

Candidates may be considered for either the Senior Financial Research Administrator or the P-Financial Research Administrator based on their education, experience, and demonstrated ability to perform work of varying complexity, independence, and responsibility.

 

Financial Research Administrator Job Summary:

• The Financial Research Administrator position is focused on Post-Award Financial Grant Administration, involving the monitoring of awards, financial analysis, and the assurance of compliance with regulations such as OMB 2 CFR 200 throughout the award life cycle for a limited portfolio of awards with assistance and guidance as needed. The employee verifies budget accuracy in Kuali Research, completes required sponsor reports, and consults with Departmental Research Administrators and Principal Investigators regarding  cost allowability, account management, and other pertinent issues as they arise.  This role operates under closer supervision than the Senior Financial Research Administrator, and manages a less complex portfolio.

 

Senior Financial Research Administrator Job Summary:

• The Senior Financial Research Administrator position is primarily focused on Post-Award Financial Grant Administration, involving the monitoring of awards, financial analysis, and the assurance of compliance with regulations such as OMB 2 CFR 200  throughout the award life cycle. In this capacity, the position verifies budget accuracy in Kuali Research, completes required sponsor reports, and consults with Departmental Research Administrators and Principal Investigators regarding cost allowability, account management, and other pertinent issues as they arise. The role serves as a liaison between the University and external agencies while proactively communicating guidance to prevent budget and compliance issues.

For full consideration, please apply by Monday, December 7, 2026, 11:59 PM (MT).

 

Department Website:

https://www.research.colostate.edu/osp/

Essential Job Duties:

• Completes financial reports, such as the SF-425, for submission to sponsors as required by award terms.
• Verifies the accuracy of award setups, modifications, and budget information in Kuali Research and Financial systems.
• Consults with Departmental Research Administrators and Principal Investigators regarding cost allowability and account management.
• Responds to inquiries in a timely manner using effective interpersonal communication and critical thinking skills.
• Communicates guidance to Departmental Research Administrators and Principal Investigators (with assistance as needed) to prevent out-of-balance budgets or compliance situations.
• Attends meetings and professional development sessions to keep current on policies relevant to the position.
• Participates in office-wide projects to ensure the institution is compliant with sponsor obligations.
• The Senior Financial Research Administrator position performs all the above responsibilities of the Financial Research Administrator, but with increased independence while managing a higher volume and complexity.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

Financial Research Administrator:

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1 year of post-award grant management/grant accounting experience.

Senior Financial Research Administrator:

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 1 year of experience in research administration. In lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma (or GED) plus 5 years of experience in research administration will be accepted.
• 3 year of post-award grant management/grant accounting experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and advise on federal, state, and sponsoring agency’s rules, regulations, policies regarding sponsored projects.
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA).

Application Instructions:

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in the announcement to be considered for hire. A complete application consists of: 

• Statement of Qualifications (a letter addressing each qualification described in the announcement).
• Resume

Mailed or emailed applications will not be accepted. Please note that incomplete applications cannot be considered. Please remove social security numbers and birth dates from application materials.

Salary Range

Financial Research Administrator: $63,000-$70,000
Senior Financial Research Administrator: $67,000 - $80,000

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

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Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.