Pre-Award Research Administrator

About the role

Candidates may be considered for either the Senior Pre-Award Research Administrator or the Pre-Award Research Administrator based on their education, experience, and demonstrated ability to perform work of varying complexity, independence, and responsibility.

Pre-Award Research Administrator Job Summary

The Pre-Award Research Administrator (PRA) supports the University's research mission by facilitating the review, preparation, and submission of sponsored project proposals as an Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR). This position ensures proposals comply with sponsor requirements, federal and state regulations, and institutional policies while safeguarding the University's legal and financial interests.

Working with a defined portfolio, the PRA collaborates with faculty, department research administrators, and sponsors to provide guidance throughout the proposal submission process. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.

Senior Pre-Award Research Administrator Job Summary

The Senior Pre-Award Research Administrator (SPRA) advances the University's research mission by independently managing the review, preparation, and submission of complex sponsored project proposals as an Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR).

Building on foundational pre-award experience, this role ensures compliance with sponsor requirements and regulatory standards while safeguarding the University's legal and financial interests. The SPRA serves as a key resource to faculty, department research administrators, and campus partners, providing expert guidance, training, and problem resolution across a larger and more complex portfolio.

This position also contributes to special projects and initiatives and may serve as a point of contact for research administration guidance.

For full consideration, please apply by Friday, November 13, 2026.

Essential Job Duties

• Review and interpret sponsor guidelines; prepare and submit complete, compliant proposal packages in sponsor systems by established deadlines.
• Analyze proposals and budgets for compliance with federal, state, and non-federal regulations, including institutional policies; review budget justifications for accuracy and alignment.
• Advise faculty and staff on proposal requirements, cost allowability, budget modifications, and pre-award best practices.
• Address compliance requirements (e.g., IRB, IACUC, COI), ensure institutional commitments are documented and approved, and resolve administrative or financial issues prior to submission.
• Identify non-standard terms and conditions and route for appropriate review; determine when additional approvals are required.
• Ensure accurate entry and maintenance of proposal records in the electronic research administration system; coordinate revisions, negotiations, and required representations and certifications.
• Serve as an Authorized Organizational Representative by signing and submitting proposals and related documents on behalf of the University.
• Participate in special initiatives, professional development opportunities, and hiring committees to support the growth and development of the Office of Sponsored Programs.
• The Senior Pre-Award Research Administrator position performs all the above responsibilities of the Pre-Award Research Administrator, but with increased independence while managing a higher volume and complexity of proposals and unit assignments.

Minimum Qualifications

Pre-Award Manager

• Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 1 year of experience in research administration. In lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma (or GED) plus 5 years of experience in research administration will be accepted.

Senior Pre-Award Manager

• Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 3 years of experience in research administration. In lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma (or GED) plus 7 years of experience in research administration will be accepted.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience providing proposal development training to faculty or staff.
• Experience serving as a point of contact for research administration guidance.
• Familiarity with federal regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200), sponsor systems, and compliance requirements.
• Active participation in professional organizations (e.g., NCURA, SRA) or relevant professional development activities.
• Experience guiding vendor versus subrecipient determinations and other complex pre-award matters.

Application Instructions

• Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in the announcement to be considered for hire.
• Mailed or emailed applications will not be accepted.
• Please note that incomplete applications cannot be considered.
• A complete application consists of:
• Statement of Qualifications (a letter addressing each qualification described in the announcement)
• Resume

Salary Range

This posting will only hire 1 person, but they will sit in one of two possible positions. See posting for details.

• Senior Pre-Award Research Administrator: $67,000 - $80,000
• Pre-Award Research Administrator: $63,000-$70,000
• Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Resume/CV, Special Required Documentation

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

• Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students.
• To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer.
• Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.