Pre-Award Grants and Contracts Specialist

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville invites applications for a Pre-Award Grants and Contracts Specialist in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP). This is a dynamic, full-time, benefit-eligible position that plays a critical role in supporting faculty and staff in securing external funding and helps facilitate internal funding proposals.

The Specialist manages all aspects of pre-award grant administration while also providing essential administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the ORSP. The successful candidate will work directly with principal investigators to prepare and route proposals, facilitate award setup, and ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal guidelines.

In addition, the Specialist will collaborate closely with the university's grant accountant and compliance officer to support accurate budgeting, proposal review, and award management.

This is a full-time, 12-month position with a starting salary of $52,000 per year, commensurate with experience. The University of Wisconsin System offers anationally top ranked retirement planand acomprehensive benefits package.

• Collaborate with faculty and research staff to identify external funding opportunities and communicate relevant information to potential principal investigators.

• Prepare and route proposals, award documents, and sponsored project agreements in accordance with established university and sponsor policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to internal deadlines.

• Review proposal budgets for accuracy and compliance with sponsor and institutional guidelines.

• Coordinate with Financial Services and campus partners to establish new accounts in the financial accounting system.

• Interpret and review award terms and conditions to support accurate post-award setup and compliance.

• Maintain accurate records, documentation, and data in ORSP systems for audit, reporting, and tracking purposes.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding pre-award processes, funding opportunities, and general ORSP operations.

• Monitor and adapt to changes in grant policies and procedures at the federal, state, and institutional levels, and communicate updates to faculty and staff.

• Assist with coordinating undergraduate research initiatives and activities as part of the ORSP's mission.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution

• Minimum of two years of experience in a related position, preferably in higher education or research administration.

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Outlook.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet strict deadlines.

• Excellent attention to detail to ensure compliance with complex regulations and policies.

• Ability to work independently and adapt to evolving procedures and priorities.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

• Familiarity with grant databases, electronic research administration systems, or financial software is a plus.

Why It's Great to be a Pioneer:

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville, founded in 1866, offers 47 baccalaureate and 10 master's programs. It possesses institutional strengths in middle level education, engineering, industrial technology, agriculture, criminal justice and business. The campus is located in Southwest Wisconsin's largest and most historic community. The region offers excellent school systems, high quality medical and hospital facilities, outstanding recreational opportunities, and vibrant businesses and industries. UW-Platteville is a cultural and educational center for the Tri-State region of Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.

Application Deadline:

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by August 8, 2025.Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled.

The following documents are required for applicant consideration:

• Letter of application addressing all required qualifications

• A curriculum vitae or resume

Legal Notices and Important Information:

Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment.

The University ensures physical accessibility to work environments for persons with disabilities and will provided reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to employment. Upon request, the University will provide reasonable accommodations for religious observances and practices.

The University is committed to a program of affirmative action for women, racial minorities, persons with disabilities, disabled veterans and veterans of the Vietnam era. While the Chancellor assumes overall responsibility for the success of the program, university administrators and supervisors are responsible and accountable for implementation. Authority for monitoring the program is delegated to Human Resources.

Each individual associated with the University is called upon to pledge a new and revitalized commitment to build and maintain a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination, an environment that fosters mutual respect, recognizes the dignity and worth of all people, and promotes to the fullest, equal employment opportunity through affirmative action.

In compliance with the Clery Act of 1998, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Annual Security & Annual Fire Safety Report is available for review. Call the UW-Platteville Campus Police Office at 608.342.1584 for a paper copy of the annual report.

The Universities of Wisconsin will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. *. 19.36(7).

EEO Statement:

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.