Proposal Specialist II

The Opportunity:

The Proposal Specialist II will provide timely, high quality and coordinated pre-award services to UCF faculty and research staff in multiple colleges/departments/units as assigned.  This position is responsible for conducting comprehensive analysis of proposals for extramural support to government and non-government entities.

Responsibilities:

• Advises and assists University faculty, staff, departmental administrators and research coordinators in the interpretation of sponsor guidelines, forms, regulations and policies related to proposal and budgetary requirements.

• Provides assistant and guidance to investigators and college and department research administrators on University and Sponsor requirements, procedural and policy changes affecting proposal preparation, review and submission

• Conducts comprehensive review of completed proposals, ensuring that proposals are current, accurate and complete and in full compliance with sponsor and University policies, procedures and other requirements.  Ensure proposal application and approvals are routed and completed through university electronic systems used for review and processing; Ensure records are accurate and complete.

• Collaborates with the senior proposal specialist on obtaining appropriate review and approvals for award terms and conditions and/or agreements as required at proposal stage.

• Coordinates with research collaborators (e.g., subcontractors, consultants, evaluators, vendors, etc.) to ensure their commitment and eligibility, and that all proposed financial documents (e.g., subcontract budget, vendor quotes, etc.) are current, accurate and complete.

• May participate and assist in the development and implementation of pre-award policies and procedures in conjunction with senior leadership to improve pre-award services. 

• Ensure the adherence of established polices and procedures for submission to central office prior to proposal submission to external sponsoring agency or community partner (i.e. 5-day rule, eRA system, etc.).

• May participate in providing training, workshops and demonstrations to investigators and their staff on pre-award matters.  Maintain up to date knowledge of various federal, state and sponsoring agencies and UCF systems.

• Attends relevant internal/external professional development trainings, seminars, conferences, pre-award staff meetings, etc.

• May report to the Proposal Specialist III or the Assistant Director for Proposals, and provides efficient and effective research administration.

• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's or Master's degree and 2+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219. Click here for more information.  

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 5+ years of experience in sponsored programs, including grant management, budgeting, non-profit management, or related areas, preferably within a research environment.

• Proficiency in interpreting and applying sponsor guidelines, federal and state regulations, and institutional policies to ensure compliance during proposal review and submission process.

• Familiarity with university electronic research administration systems (e.g., Huron Research Suite, or similar platforms) and electronic systems for proposal review and processing (e.g., Huron Grants Suite), as well as other third-party electronic systems. 

• Experience in addressing complex issues related to proposal preparation and submission, with an emphasis on accuracy, compliance, and sponsor requirements.

• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines, prioritize tasks, and work effectively in a fast-paced research environment. 

• Strong problem-solving skills with the capacity to identify issues and proactively propose solutions. 

• Commitment to delivering excellent customer service, demonstrating keen attention to detail and a strong focus on compliance throughout the process.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex information to diverse stakeholders.

Special Instructions to the Applicants:

Hybrid work schedule or remote work within the state of Florida may be considered based upon specific circumstances and candidate qualifications.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $56,030- $68,636.50. The final salary will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and internal equity considerations.

If you are selected as the final candidate for an employment opportunity here at UCF, both your position and salary will be significantly based upon the information that you have provided in your application for employment. We urge you to please take the time to complete the application in its entirety.

This is a Contract and Grant (C&G) funded position. Employment is subject to availability of funding and may cease at the time funding for this employment is depleted.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Central Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

As a Florida public university, UCF makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.   

The University of Central Florida is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.”  

To request an accommodation with the application or interview process, please contact the Office of Institutional Equity by telephone: 407-823-1336; email oie@ucf.edu; or visit in person: 12701 Scholarship Drive, Orlando, FL 32816-0030.