APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
Pre-Award Activities:
- Review notices of intent and solicitations for grant proposals; collaborate with PIs on draft budgets and justifications.
- Gather required documents for proposal submission (biosketches, current & pending support, conflict of interest forms, facilities and equipment details, etc.).
- Coordinate with the College of Agricultural Sciences' Office of Grants and Contracts (OGC) to obtain special approvals (e.g., cost share, financial risk, IAF, advanced accounts).
- Distribute correspondence and updates from OGC and ACOR listserv to faculty regarding proposal deadlines and sponsor requirements.
Post-Award Activities:
- Review awarded grants for accuracy; ensure necessary internal orders (IOs) are created and distributed to Co-PIs as needed.
- Prepare backup needed for journal entries in SIMBA for cost transfers or account updates.
- Advise faculty, staff, and students on cost allowability and allocability.
- Assist PIs with no-cost extensions, carryforward requests, budget revisions, and personnel changes.
- Prepare detailed invoice documentation for sponsors such as PLCB and CDC and others as needed.
- Provide financial reports to PIs and monitor grant end dates to ensure timely closeout.
- Monitor all grants in Food Science to ensure accurate spending.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Serve as the primary initiator for purchasing cards, travel, PSUbuy orders, SIMBA forms, and other transactions as part of the Finance Optimized Service Teams (OST) rollout in February 2026.
Requirements
The Department of Food Science is seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented, and collaborative professional to join our team as a Proposal and Award Generalist . This role is integral to supporting our research mission and will manage the full life cycle of grants, from proposal development through award closeout., * Accounting and research administration experience required.
- Strong knowledge of SIMS/SIMS Budgets, SIMBA (Penn State's financial system, or similar systems), Adobe Acrobat, WorkLion, and MS Office Suite.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Completion of ACES (ACOR Certification and Education Series).
- Familiarity with university financial policies and procedures preferred., Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None, Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Benefits & conditions
Health insurance, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Vision insurance, Dental insurance, Paid holidays, The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $46,400.00 - $67,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
