How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
Since 1841, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) has been the heart of The Michigan Difference, educating young leaders through a rich liberal arts curriculum and creating new knowledge through world-class research and scholarship. We offer more than 100-degree programs in over 75 academic departments and programs. Learn more about LSA at http://www.lsa.umich.edu/.
At the University of Michigan's College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), our Finance team comprises over 100 dedicated professionals providing comprehensive financial, procurement, and research administration support across more than 100 units. We are currently seeking a lead research administrator to offer advanced portfolio management and budgeting
support throughout the entire grant process ranging from pre-award preparation and proposal submission to post-award grant administration. Additionally, this role will provide support to our pool program by assisting with training and onboarding of new staff.
In this role, you will serve as a lead research administrator providing pre- and post-award expertise and backup support wherever needed within all five business office teams. You will also mentor team members within the LSA Finance Business Offices, offer support with complex tasks, training, and projects. Additionally, oversee the workload coverage process by coordinating with functional leads and keeping the team informed.
This position requires excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively across various university offices and a flexible, resourceful approach to adapting to evolving organizational needs. As part of a collaborative community, you will have opportunities for professional growth and receive support from a peer mentor to help you integrate into the LSA Finance team.
Flexible Work Arrangements
As part of the University of Michigan's Future Work Initiative and LSA Finance's Flexible Work Arrangements, you may work either on campus or remotely. There is a requirement to come to campus as necessary throughout the year to facilitate intentional collaboration, team building, and connections. This includes times when the project or work would benefit from on-campus presence, or when requested by the customer. Any travel planning or expenses related to coming to campus are the responsibility of the employee.
Responsibilities*
Support Coordination:
- Assist with complex workloads across all LSA Finance business offices, providing transitional support.
- Provide temporary backup support for staff on vacation, medical, or parental leave assisting with faculty portfolio management, including pre- and post- award activities.
- Manage the LSA RA workload coverage process, including coordinating coverage with other leads and team members.
- Be adaptable to new responsibilities as organizational needs evolve.
- Demonstrate resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving and maintain open communication with all stakeholders.
Mentoring:
- Provide mentorship to staff across business offices, offering guidance and support to help navigate challenges and make informed decisions.
- Actively listen to mentees' concerns and goals, offering empathetic support and constructive feedback.
- Share knowledge, resources, and networks to enhance mentees' understanding and opportunities.
Training:
- Lead training sessions or workshops for RA staff, adapting methods to diverse learning styles.
- Provide comprehensive knowledge of research administration processes, regulations, and best practices.
- Ensure participants understand complex regulatory frameworks and offer up-to-date information.
Projects:
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and contribute ideas to enhance team effectiveness.
- Collaborate with team members, fostering a positive and supportive environment.
- Actively engage in projects, meeting deadlines, and communicating openly about progress and challenges.
Overall, your role will require flexibility, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to build rapport across various teams while maintaining high standards of work and communication.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- 7 or more years of relevant research administration experience and/or higher-level financial activities.
- In-depth knowledge of Excel and other Office products
- Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Proficient in conveying complex information clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally, to diverse stakeholders.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion in LSA, please visit lsa.umich.edu/lsa/dei.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.
Mission Statement
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO/AA Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.