Research Financial Administrator, Division of Research & Innovation

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Financial Administrator, Division of Research & Innovation at its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Position Purpose:

The Research Financial Administrator provides comprehensive financial and administrative support for sponsored research shared services model within the Division of Research and Innovation (DORI).

The Research Financial Administrator serves as a key resource for financial planning and post-award administration, providing analysis and guidance to support operational effectiveness, accurate financial management, and long-term sustainability of research programs. This positions reports to the Associate Director, Finance.

Essential Functions:

Manages and monitors all unit budgets in compliance with allocation methodologies, budget policies, sponsor requirements, and applicable regulations across multiple fund types, including general funds, scholarships, endowments, and sponsored programs. Provides comprehensive financial reporting, forecasting, and analytical support to Division leadership and Principal Investigators to facilitate strategic planning and informed decision-making. Develop detailed financial analyses, statistical reports, and fiscal activity summaries to support operational oversight, resource management, and long-term financial sustainability.

Provides oversight of DORI commitments and cost-sharing activities, including budget development, financial monitoring, and compliance tracking. Ensures responsible stewardship and safeguarding of departmental assets and financial resources through accurate oversight of expenditures, proper allocation of funds, and adherence to institutional and sponsor requirements.

Manage or assists in the oversight for the preparation of grant proposals and contractual agreements and associated budgets; ensure the timely submission of proposals or agreements and progress reports, which meet institutional or Division mandates.

Manages the financial and budget aspects of the grant award functions, both pre and post, including the development and review of specific budgets and knowledge of the funding process as well as the administrative implementation of the financial, budgetary, and projection of expenditures.

Reconcile Human Resource System data to Financial Management System data.

Prepares projections or forecasts of expenses in comparison to budget categories/line items to avoid deficits, optimize use of available funds, and adhere to approved budget parameters.

Facilitate, lead, and participate in projects and multidisciplinary teams.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

Proficient in excel, data analysis, and financial projection reports required.

Experience in research administration, grants and contract management, or financial administration preferred.

Experience in higher education, academic medical centers, or research institutions preferred.

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or similar credential) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships and communicate with all levels in a variety of complex, sometimes sensitive issues.

Ability to write analytical and administrative reports appropriate for a variety of audiences.

Demonstrated skill in developing utilization plans and justifying acquisitions.

Demonstrated computer skills to develop financial and administrative reporting systems; recommend hardware and software purchases and trouble-shoot problems.

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of contract and grant administration.

Skilled in negotiating and formulating policies and programs.

School/College/Division:

The Division of Research & Innovation

Primary Department:

H0905 - VP Research

Employment Type:

• Regular Employee
• Job type: Full Time
• Job category: Staff/Administrative

Funding/Salary Information:

• Compensation type: Annual Salary
  
• Annual Salary: To be determined
  

Working Conditions:

Work is typically performed in an office or hybrid environment with frequent interaction with faculty, research staff, and administrative offices.

The role may require periods of high workload during reporting cycles, proposal deadlines, or audit periods.

Occasional extended hours may be necessary to meet institutional or sponsor deadlines.

Job openings:

• Number of openings: 1
• Reposted position: Yes
• Reposted reason: Supercedes Previous Requisition
• Prior posting/requisition number: Req # 3420

Background Check Requirements:

University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.