Research Finance and Compliance Analyst - University of Louisiana at Lafayette : Job Details

The Research Finance and Compliance Analyst supports the financial administration and compliance monitoring of externally funded grants and contracts at an R1 research university. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, adherence to funding agency guidelines, and the development of metrics to track grant performance. The analyst works closely with faculty, staff, and administrators to support the effective financial management of research projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial Administration: Assist in the preparation and review of grant and contract invoices and financial reports to ensure accuracy and compliance with sponsor requirements. Monitor grant budgets for compliance with award terms, identifying and resolving discrepancies or potential issues. Evaluate financial transactions, expenditures, and documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness of charges to sponsored projects.
• Compliance Monitoring: Review financial transactions and supporting documentation for compliance with federal, state, and sponsor regulations, as well as institutional policies. Assist in ensuring internal controls are followed to safeguard grant funds and minimize risks. Support the preparation of documentation for external audits and respond to inquiries as needed. Review grant proposals, agreements, and award documents to verify compliance with sponsor guidelines and institutional policies. Collaborate with stakeholders to provide compliance guidance, investigate concerns, and stay updated on regulations and best practices; deliver training to enhance compliance awareness and internal controls. Research and evaluate accounting principles, test new financial system functionalities, and contribute to improving departmental efficiency through policies, procedures, and technology.
• Data Reporting and Metrics: Develop and maintain reports on key grant metrics, such as award activity, expenditure rates, and compliance adherence. Assist in generating regular and ad hoc financial reports for leadership and stakeholders to support data-driven decision-making. Keep up with SPFAC related platform profiles by making sure they stay active. Work with the Accounting Manager to complete the SEFA annually.
• Training and Support: Provide guidance to principal investigators and departmental staff on grant-related financial policies and compliance requirements. Assist with the development of training materials and resources to support best practices in grants management.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to streamline financial and compliance processes, contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of research administration. Collaborate with team members to implement technology solutions and improvements in data management.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field required. Minimum of 2 years of experience in grants accounting, research administration, or a related financial role.

Skills, Knowledge, Etc.: Familiarity with federal regulations governing grants and contracts (e.g., 2 CFR 200, NIH, NSF). Skills and Competencies: Strong attention to detail and analytical skills, with the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies. Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency in financial management systems (e.g., Ellucian Banner, Workday) and advanced Excel skills. Knowledge of accounting principles and practices related to sponsored research.

Preferred Qualifications: Comprehensive knowledge of accounting and internal auditing practices in a higher education or research-intensive environment, or a governmental agency, or other business setting with prior experience in grant accounting. Knowledge of research administration certifications such as CRA (Certified Research Administrator) or CGFM (Certified Government Financial Manager). Audit experience with evaluating and documenting internal controls. Experience with Ellucian Banner or other ERP system