Summary: This position plays a key role in ensuring institutional compliance with federal costing standards, overseeing Facilities and Administrative (F&A) cost recovery efforts, and guiding financial compliance strategies in support of UTEP’s expanding research portfolio.
Note: The primary accountabilities below are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Incumbents may perform all or some of the primary accountabilities listed below. Specific tasks or responsibilities will be documented in the incumbents’ performance objectives as outlined by the incumbents’ immediate supervisor or manager. This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information. Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State where the applicant resides and must be insurable as defined in the UT System UTS 157, as applicable to the performance of essential duties and responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting

EXPERIENCE:

Seven (7) to ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in cost accounting, research financial compliance within a higher education, nonprofit, or federal agency setting.
In-depth knowledge of Uniform Guidance, Cost Accounting Standards, effort reporting, internal controls, and other compliance requirements applicable to sponsored research.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex regulations into clear guidance for academic and administrative staff.
Strong analytical and organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and lead initiatives with cross-functional teams.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Master’s Degree or CPA
Experience preparing and defending F&A cost proposals in accordance with federal guidelines.

Oversees institutional compliance with federal and state regulations related to research costing, post-award financial administration, and internal controls, including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200).
Leads the development, submission, and negotiation of the University’s F&A cost rate proposal in coordination with Contracts & Grants Accounting, Financial Services, and external consultants.
Ensures UTEP’s costing practices are consistent with Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and best practices.
Monitors changes in federal regulations and provides timely guidance and training to relevant stakeholders on cost principles, financial reporting, effort certification, and allowability of costs.
Provides leadership and subject matter expertise on cost allocation methodologies, indirect cost recovery, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
Collaborates closely with Research & Innovation, and other campus units to ensure accurate and compliant.
Develops and maintains policies, procedures, tools, and resources related to research financial compliance and cost accounting practices.
Provides reports, briefings, and strategic advice to executive leadership on compliance trends, risks, and mitigation measures.
Collaborates closely with Research & Innovation and other campus units to ensure accurate and compliant financial management of sponsored projects.
Develops and maintains policies, procedures, tools, and resources related to research financial compliance and cost accounting practices.
Provides reports, briefings, and strategic advice to executive leadership on compliance trends, risks, and mitigation measures.
Leads and supervises assigned staff to ensure effective delivery of costing and financial compliance functions.
Develop, update, and disseminate educational materials to include creating guides, training modules, and informational sessions tailored for faculty, staff, and administrators to foster understanding and ensure effective application of university cost accounting standards and policies.
Coordinates and supports internal and external audits related to research financial compliance.
Utilizes data analytics and reporting tools to monitor compliance metrics, identify trends, and proactively address areas of risk.
Evaluates and enhances costing and compliance processes to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with institutional goals.
Knowledge of all Microsoft Office software and able to learn and use institutional software systems.
Complies with all State and University policies.
Other duties may be assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s objectives, policies and applicable laws.