The Director of Pre-award Operations has management responsibility for the University of Tennessee’s proposal and pre-award functions for externally funded projects. Responsibilities include directing staff that are responsible for advising and assisting faculty and other researchers in the administrative and financial aspects of their proposals, authority to sign and submit proposals to external agencies, and responding to inquiries from external sponsors requiring additional information about the proposals. The Director of Pre-award Operations will report to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research Administration (AVCRA) and be part of the senior leadership team for the Division of Research Administration.
This position will stay abreast of policies and procedures pertaining to research administration and ensure that information is provided to University faculty, staff, and administrators. The incumbent will play a leadership role both within the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development within the university community, and nationally; particularly through organizations such as National Council of University Research Administrators, Society of Research Administrators International, Council on Governmental Relations, and the Federal Demonstration Partnership. The incumbent is also expected to contribute and promote the diversity and intercultural goals of the University.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in any related field

EXPERIENCE:

• 10 years of extensive experience working in an office of sponsored programs administration in an academic, research institute, foundation, or national laboratory environment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Detailed knowledge and comprehension of pre- and post-award sponsored programs administration and experience with grant and contract policies of major federal, state, and private sponsors and knowledge of federal regulations
• Ability and proficiency in using sponsor-specific online systems such as Fastlane, Grants.gov, Research.gov, NSPIRES, etc.
• Ability to review, critique, and analyze proposals for accuracy, completion, and compliance with policies and procedures
• Ability to develop budgets, provide financial recommendations, and provide insight to support decision making
• Ability to motivate others and promote teamwork
• Analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to multitask in a fast paced working environment
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities, manage several complex projects simultaneously, and meet time sensitive deadlines
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with others at various levels and disciplines, both within and outside the University
  Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.

EDUCATION:

• Master’s degree in any related field
• Certified Research Administrator

EXPERIENCE:

10 years of extensive experience working in an office of sponsored programs administration in an academic, research institute, foundation, or national laboratory environment is preferred. Preference will also given to individuals with certification as a research administrator (CRA).
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KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of and working familiarity with DOE National Labs
• Knowledge of and experience working in an academic institution with preference given to experience working in a Central Sponsored Programs office
• Skill and experience in conducting training workshops

Perform other duties as needed to achieve the goals and expectations of the AVCRA and research community.