Senior Sponsored Research Accountant

Responsibilities

• Drive the financial close process for sponsored projects, ensuring adherence to sponsor terms, university policy, and federal regulations.
• Serve as a compliance advisor to Principal Investigators (PIs) and department managers, translating complex regulations into actionable guidance.
• Lead and coordinate federal multi-agency audit responses, serving as the principal point of contact for evidence compilation.
• Manage the end-to-end setup of new awards and provide consultation on the full award lifecycle, including budget validation and funding modifications.
• Command a diverse portfolio of sponsored projects, performing budget-to-actual variance analysis and monitoring project deliverables.
• Design financial dashboards and data visualizations to provide real-time insights to leadership and PIs.
• Oversee sub-awardee invoicing, reporting, and compliance, and monitor key personnel effort.
• Identify and spearhead process improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency of sponsored project administration.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in grant or contract accounting or sponsored research administration.
• Mastery of federal regulations including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), FAR, and CAS.
• High proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday, or SAP) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Exceptional analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Successful completion of a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA, MPA) or professional certification (CPA, CRA).
• Direct experience in a university, academic medical center, or non-profit research institution.
• Experience managing complex awards such as large federal contracts or clinical trials.
• Proven track record in leading process improvement projects or system implementations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits and ample paid time off.
• Access to a Family Concierge Team and fitness center.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.

About the Company

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. We are a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, inventing the future through groundbreaking science, big data, and hands-on learning.