Grants Specialist - Lead

University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE, USA

USD 56,118+ / year

Posted on Aug 18, 2026
Working Title Grants Specialist - Lead
Department College of Engineering-0907
Requisition Number S_260650
Posting Open Date 08/17/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 08/31/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
As a Grants Specialist-Lead, you will serve as a trusted resource to faculty and departments, providing expert guidance and support throughout the sponsored research proposal process.
Responsibilities include:
  • Partnering with faculty and departments to support the successful development and submission of sponsored research proposals.
  • Providing consultative guidance on grants administration policies, procedures, and best practices.
  • Coordinating proposal budgets, documentation, submissions, and grant startup activities.
  • Collaborating with university partners to deliver exceptional service and promote effective, compliant research administration.
  • Ensuring that records are maintained according to policy.
  • Supervising employees by providing work direction, coaching, training, and mentoring to support employee development and ensure consistent, accurate, and timely completion of responsibilities.
  • Supporting sponsored research through post-award grant financial management and administration.
  • Assisting with training new staff members.
  • Reviewing and coordinating complex financial activities, including travel, contracts, journal entries, accounts receivable, capital assets, and other financial transactions.
  • Supporting unit leadership in budget analysis, preparing reports and identifying potential areas of concern.

Following an initial onsite training period of up to six months, this position may become eligible for a hybrid work schedule with up to 1 remote day(s) per week. All hybrid arrangements are subject to supervisor approval and are determined based on operational needs.

Note: Sponsorship will not be offered for this position.

About Us
At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
  • Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
  • Robust retirement plans with university match

Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree plus (4) years of related experience in grants administration, proposal development, finance, or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
  • Experience working with SAP or another large integrated financial system.
  • Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, including Excel for data analysis and reporting.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and university policies.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive, collaborative relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work, manage multiple deadlines, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
We seek an experienced professional with strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and a collaborative approach. The ideal candidate builds strong relationships, provides excellent service, and confidently communicates difficult decisions when needed.
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No
Criminal History Background Check Required Yes
Posted Salary $56,118/year minimum
How to Apply
Click on “Apply for this Job”. You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your resume, cover letter and list of references as three (3) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Jared Schreiner, jschreiner3@unl.edu
Job Category (old) Managerial/Professional
Job Type Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date
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