Contracts Officer (Remote or Hybrid)

The Contracts Officer on the Grants Management Team is responsible for reviewing and negotiating a wide variety of research grants and related agreements from federal, state, and nonprofit funding agencies. Review includes verifying budgets and ensuring conformance with sponsor, governmental, and internal requirements.

The incumbent must successfully manage a complex portfolio with little oversight, keeping all tasks and communication timely. Must have the ability to work both independently and as an effective team member to accomplish office and University goals. This position must work collaboratively within the Office of Sponsored Programs as well as with other central University offices, other academic institutions, and sponsors. Candidate should have demonstrated facilitation and communication skills and the ability to work with individuals of all levels to develop and accomplish shared goals. Negotiation skills to balance sponsor and University needs while ensuring compliance with applicable policies and regulations are essential. Applicant must be able to promptly review and analyze agreements in compliance with sponsor and/or internal deadlines, must be able to offer new and innovative solutions when required, and must effectively negotiate acceptable terms and conditions promptly.

The Office of Sponsored Programs (osp.pitt.edu) is a mission-driven central office that values a team-oriented culture and actively encourages internal career advancement. OSP partners with faculty and staff to support the University's $1B annual research enterprise. For more information on the University of Pittsburgh’s research accomplishments, watch the video Driven by the Search at this link: https://pittresearchannualreport.com/. This position is available as 100% remote or hybrid, depending on the candidate's preference.

Applicants must submit both a cover letter and a resume to be considered for this position.

Supports the preparation of proposals and negotiates a wide variety of routine to more complex non-standard proposals and agreements. Acts as a point of contact and provides expertise on policies and procedures. Verifies budgets and resolves inquiries and issues. Prepares grant submissions and award correspondence. Maintains electronic research administration systems.

Reviews and negotiates research contracts on behalf of the University.

Documents communications and actions within internal systems.

Communicates and acts on behalf of the University with sponsors and collaborators.

Primarily sedentary. All work is done electronically, including virtual meetings.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.