Description:
The Student Sponsored Program Manager (SSPM) position supports Principal Investigators (PIs) in managing externally sponsored projects, with duties aligned to research development, grants management, compliance, and project coordination. The three levels within this role reflect increasing training completion, independence, scope of responsibility, and institutional engagement. Full job descriptions can be found here for each SSPM Level:
Note: Only those enrolled in a Masters Degree will be eligible for SSPM III.
Responsibilities:
- Support management of complex sponsored projects, including project planning, budgeting, and coordination across stakeholders, in consultation with SPARC.
- Prepare and support sponsor-required reporting, ensuring accuracy and timeliness under SPARC review.
- Assist with identifying potential compliance risks and support implementation of mitigation strategies in coordination with SPARC.
- Serve as a resource to PIs by providing guidance on sponsored programs processes and best practices, as appropriate for a student role.
- Maintain knowledge related to federal, sponsor, and institutional policies and procedures; maintain communication with SPARC regarding progress and learning milestones.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Required: Enrollment in a bachelor’s degree program
- Interest in research administration, grants management, or higher education administration
- Prior administrative, project coordination, or office experience
- Familiarity with basic budgeting concepts or project tracking
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Preferred:
- Coursework in Business Administration
- Accounting
- Public Administration
- Research Administration
- Related field.