Pre and Post Award Senior Research Grants Administrator Consultant

Summary

Join Vitalief, an innovative consulting company, as a Senior Research Grants Administrator Consultant. You will be a key player in managing federal grant terminations, stop work orders, and appeals. This remote position requires deep expertise in pre-award and post-award functions, a strong understanding of federal regulations, and experience with agencies like NIH and NSF. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment and can manage multiple projects simultaneously. The contract is for 6 months with a possible extension, and the pay is market competitive. The work is 100% remote, but candidates must reside in the EST or CST time zones.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred
• At least 5–7 years of progressively responsible research administration experience, including managing pre- and post-award functions
• Demonstrated experience with federal funders including NIH, NSF, DHHS, DoD, DoE (Energy and Education), and others
• Strong knowledge of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and sponsor-specific regulations
• Experience responding to grant terminations and navigating the appeals process
• Previous experience working in or with universities or academic medical centers
• Excellent communication, organization, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently and under pressure while managing multiple projects and deadlines
• Must be able to thrive in a Fast-paced, collaborative setting
• Occasional extended hours during high-volume periods (e.g., proposal deadlines, report due dates)
• Experience with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and information sharing platforms like Microsoft Teams

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary liaison in the event of grant terminations, stop work orders, or funding suspensions from federal sponsors
• Review termination notices for accuracy and compliance with award terms
• Coordinate institutional response with PI’s, department chairs, legal counsel, and senior leadership
• Assist in drafting and submitting formal appeals or rebuttals, including preparing supporting documentation, justifications, and corrective action plans
• Track deadlines and manage correspondence with sponsors to ensure timely resolution
• Support closeout of terminated awards, including reconciliation of expenditures, reporting, equipment disposition, and subaward finalization
• Maintain detailed records of all communications, submissions, and decisions related to the appeal process
• Provide institutional guidance and training on navigating grant termination scenarios and appeals
• Provide end-to-end proposal development support to faculty and PI’s, including budget creation, justifications, and compliance documentation
• Interpret and apply federal regulations including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and agency-specific requirements
• Ensure timely and compliant submission / re-submission of proposals through sponsor systems
• Coordinate with PI’s and departments to ensure timely and accurate progress reports, financial reports, and closeout documentation
• Work closely with finance, legal, compliance, and departmental staff to resolve issues throughout the grant lifecycle
• Utilize Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Teams to prepare reports, share information, and collaborate across teams; and work within institution-specific grant management systems

Benefits

• Work is 100% remote
• Hourly Pay Rate: Market competitive - based on experience level
• This resource can work as a Vitalief temporary employee or as a 1099 contractor
• Contract Duration: 6 Months with possible extension