New

Proposal and Award Generalist, Liberal Arts Award Hub

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
May 27, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICS The College of the Liberal Arts Research Office is seeking a Proposal and Award Generalist to provide pre-award administration services and expertise to all departments and colleges within the Liberal Arts Award Hub. The Liberal Arts Award Hub is comprised of the College of the Liberal Arts, College of Education, Bellisario College of Communications, and Penn State Dickinson Law. The Proposal and Award Generalist will deliver preaward research administration services, partnering with faculty and college personnel to identify funding opportunities, prepare and submit competitive proposals, ensure compliance, and support successful sponsored research activities. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Based on faculty expertise and faculty requests, search for, identify, analyze, and distribute funding opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and nonprofit organizations Advise Principal Investigators (PIs) on compliance requirements, including human subjects, animal care, invention disclosures, patents, and copyrights Identify and proactively communicate potential compliance or risk issues; escalate highrisk proposals to management as needed Prepare for and manage highvolume proposal cycles; advise PIs on anticipated changes in submission volume and sponsor requirements Assist with proposal development by reviewing sponsor and institutional guidelines, required forms, certifications, and timelines; update and/or create derivative checklists for PIs Develop and finalize proposal budgets and budget justifications, including cost sharing, subawards, and financial documentation in coordination with PIs and sponsors Coordinate and assemble complex and limited submissions in collaboration with college/unit offices and research administration partners Provide guidance on allowable costs, indirect cost rates, advanced funding requests, and other financial considerations impacting proposals Review documents and proposal contents against checklists and guidelines for compliance Submit grant proposals on behalf of the institution and PIs when authorized Maintain electronic records of grants and awards Monitor submissions and awards using electronic research systems Track funding and project end dates Assist PIs with completing annual and final grant reports As a member of the pre-award services team, Proposal and Award Generalist will perform the above work activities in a large volume, fast paced, and multifaceted environment. Qualifications Required Qualifications: Effective written and verbal communication skills Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others Ability to respond professionally to principal investigators (PIs), both regularly and in challenging situations Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment as a team player Effective organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Preferred Qualifications (one or more): Penn State's ACOR Certification and Education Series (ACES) program graduate Working knowledge of Penn State's Financial System and SIMS (Penn State's budgeting system) Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel, Word, Outlook) and Adobe Acrobat for document preparation, data tracking, and professional communication Working knowledge of common electronic proposal submission systems (e.g., grants.gov, Research.gov, Cayuse, and other sponsor portals) MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None Important Application Instructions: Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume. Additional Information: The College of the Liberal Arts is supportive of flexible work and/or remote arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work and/or remote arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES 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. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00. 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. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. 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