Research Portfolio Administrator

Job Description

The Research Portfolio Administrator (Financial Associate II) is responsible for the financial and administrative management of a mid-sized portfolio consisting of one or several departmental research labs, and possibly one or more departmental service centers.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Monitors and analyzes revenue and expenditures on federal and non-federal research grants, restricted accounts, gifts and other discretionary resources.
• Responsible for compliance and audit issues, budget submission, reporting, projections and accurate financial analysis.
• Monitors grants and contracts for Principal Investigator (PI) on a daily basis to ensure expenses are paid-according to contract and government regulations within budget limits and timelines.
• Processes corrective journals to general ledger, oversees invoice payments; purchasing and corporate-card transactions; vendor set-up; and gift account requests.
• Responsible for internal and external billings, including accounts receivable, credit vouchers, etc. Prepares financial reports for sponsored awards.
• Interprets award terms/conditions, Federal, non-federal and University financial/administrative policies.
• Assists PIs and the Office of Research Administration with the submission of grant proposals.
• Notifies PI and supervisor about funding shortfalls and plans for contingencies.
• Provides guidance to the faculty about department, university and sponsored policies.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Four or more years of experience in sponsored research administration or related experience required. Higher education may count toward years of experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Exceptional customer service skills required.
• Must be able to effectively communicate (verbal and written).
• Computer proficiency with Excel and Word with a strong desire and aptitude to learn complex data query tools.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Strong problem solving skills with attention to detail and accuracy essential.
• Ability to handle confidential information/materials with discretion.
• Experience with ORACLE financial systems as well as knowledge of Harvard's financial applications preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple shifting priorities in fast-paced environment.

Additional Information

• Term: This is a 2-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.  
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Interview Format: All interviews will be conducted remotely using a video conferencing platform.
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 055. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Salary Grade: 055