Sponsored Program Officer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Ohio.

📋 Description

• Act as the primary institutional business representative and central administrative liaison for faculty principal investigators and department/college administrators regarding the pre- and post-award management of externally funded grants and contracts.

• Provide guidance to principal investigators on submitting proposals to funding agencies.

• Develop, review, and authorize budgets in accordance with University and sponsor guidelines.

• Advise principal investigators on compliance issues, including human subjects, animal protocols, conflict of interest, and export control regulations.

• Ensure proposals meet RFP, sponsor, and University standards, and facilitate institutional approval for timely submissions.

• Assess and negotiate agreements and award terms with external sponsors.

• Input new award data and related administrative and financial requirements into the grants management system.

• Relay award information and grant account numbers to principal investigators and administrative personnel.

• Draft, issue, and negotiate subaward agreements and review consultant contracts.

• Sanction expenditures while addressing, researching, and communicating on post-award issues.

• Examine monthly grant account reports for allowable costs, cost-sharing obligations, deficits, and project closeouts.

• Collaborate with purchasing and accounts payable on expense approvals.

• Serve as the business official and sponsor contact for prior approval requests.

• Oversee and coordinate the necessary technical and financial deliverables.

• Analyze and rectify financial compliance issues and funding discrepancies.

• Participate in committees and foster relationships with constituents through visits to principal investigators and outreach initiatives.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Two years of administrative experience in a professional business setting, specifically in information management, adherence to policies and procedures, procurement, accounting, and/or financial management.

• Two years of experience in customer service and problem resolution.

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• A resume and cover letter must be submitted at the time of application.

• Reliable internet connection and home office setup if duties are performed remotely.

• Ohio State will not sponsor applicants for a work visa for this role.

• Final candidates must successfully complete a background check; a drug screen or physical may be required during the post-offer process.

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with Ohio State covering a substantial portion of the costs.

• Paid time off, inclusive of sick leave, vacation time, and 11 holidays.

• Participation in a state retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both featuring generous employer contributions.

• Work/life balance, collaborative peer environment, autonomy, and supportive leadership.

• Flexible work schedule and location options, including remote work aligned with U.S. Eastern Time Zone.

• Occasional in-person work events throughout the year.

• University-provided equipment and supportive technology resources.

• Comprehensive training program featuring an assigned job coach who offers mentoring and guidance during the training phase.