What are the responsibilities and job description for the TDA - Finance - Grant Specialist position at Texas Department of Agriculture?
Please paste the following URL into a browser to view the entire job posting on the CAPPS Careers page.https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psp/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FLandAction=UandFOCUS=ApplicantandSiteId=1andJobOpeningId=102051andPostingSeq=1Agency InformationThe Texas Department of Agriculture Financial Services Division supports TDA programs by performing financial duties in the areas of accounting, budget, purchasing, and contracting. The Grants Office oversees numerous state and federal grant programs, including but not limited to: Rural Hospital Capital Improvement Program, Rural Nursing Stipends, Agriculture Grants, State Trade Expansion Program, Marketing Enhancement Grant Assistance, Home Delivered Meals Grant, Urban Schools Agricultural Grant, Boll Weevil Eradication, Surplus Agricultural Grant, Specialty Crop Block Grant, and the State of Texas Agricultural Relief program.Telework Option: TDA does not offer telework, and all employees are required to be physically present for work. The agency's core business hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. TDA also provides limited customer service between 6:00-8:00 a.m. and 5:00-6:00 p.m.Location: This position will report to one of the following TDA locations: Austin (HQ). Job DescriptionWHAT YOU'LL DO: The Grants Specialist will perform highly complex grant administration work including preparing, monitoring, analyzing, and evaluating all aspects of multiple programs, including those impacting rural hospitals, small businesses, non-profits and agricultural producers. Your primary tasks will include reviewing grant reimbursements and administrative review of grant applications. You will perform additional work including planning, implementation, and coordination for assigned grant programs. You may serve as a lead worker providing direction to others. You will work under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Job DutiesCoordinate and approve requests for reimbursement from grantees.Review grant applications submitted for funding consideration and determine eligibility for award based on established criteria, coordinate review panels, and evaluations of grant applications.Develop grant agreement details for grant award execution, review requests for grant agreement revisions.Coordinate and maintain grant files and records and perform timely and accurate data entry of information.Respond to constituent requests/concerns in an accurate and timely manner, either in writing, telephone or in person. This may include training/consultative and technical guidance to staff, agencies/grantees, counties and community organizations regarding grant application process, reporting and general grantee requirements.Ensure grantee compliance with conditions of grant award by monitoring and analyzing agreements, expenses, activities, and federal and state regulations.Address issues, develop solutions and resolve non-compliance issues by investigating and resolving discrepancies and complaints or other concerns.Review grant closeout materials to determine completion of the project.Maintain/update program guidelines/procedures and policies.Assist in the coordination of special activities and projects, as needed.Follow all TDA policies and procedures.Perform other duties as assigned. QualificationsTo be considered for the position, applicants must submit a State of Texas Application through CAPPS Careers or WIT - experience listed on the application must state how each of the following qualifications are met:Bachelor's degree (One year of work experience related to the essential duties may substitute for one year of college).Two (2) years work experience in the following (or closely related) fields: grant management, contract coordination, accounting, reimbursement, or compliance. Preferred QualificationsBachelor's degree with major coursework in Agriculture, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or related field.Knowledge/Skills/AbilitiesKnowledge of laws and regulations pertaining to grants and/or contract administration; business administration principles and practices; and of research and budgeting processes.Skill in grant preparation, development, evaluation, and monitoring; providing customer service excellence to both internal and external customers; report writing; budget development and monitoring; and in the use of a computer and applicable software.Ability to interpret guidelines, policies, procedures, and regulations; evaluate fiscal data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with grant requirements; work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines while maintaining extreme attention to detail; communicate effectively, orally and in writing; exercise sound judgement and discretion; and to maintain the highest level of confidentiality. Working ConditionsPhysical Requirements and Working Conditions: Requires working in a normal office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve walking; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination; and safely lifting and carrying items weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able to work extended periods at a computer and may require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed. May involve travel, occasionally overnight (up to 5%). BenefitsThe State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:Retirement PlanPaid Group Health and Life Insurance for employees Paid HolidaysPaid Vacation LeavePaid Sick LeaveLongevity PayDentalVisionDependent Optional Life InsuranceVoluntary