Pre-Award Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

The Pre-Award Program Manager (PPM) serves as a key partner to Notre Dame faculty and research administrators by supporting the development, review, compliance, and submission of competitive research grant proposals. This role manages the pre-award process for an assigned portfolio of investigators, serving as the primary point of contact between faculty, University partners, and external research sponsors.

The Pre-Award Program Manager provides expert guidance on proposal development, budget preparation, sponsor requirements, and University policies and procedures. Using independent judgment and strong knowledge of sponsored research administration, this position ensures proposals are accurate, compliant, and submitted successfully to government and non-government funding agencies in support of University research and training initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with faculty investigators to develop and prepare complex research proposals, including budgets, budget justifications, administrative documents, and supporting materials.
• Review proposals for accuracy, completeness, compliance with sponsor guidelines, and alignment with University policies and procedures prior to submission.
• Advise faculty and research teams on sponsor requirements, submission processes, funding opportunities, and best practices in proposal development.
• Serve as the primary preaward contact for an assigned portfolio of investigators, providing responsive and solutions-oriented support throughout the proposal lifecycle.
• Interpret and apply federal, state, institutional, and sponsor-specific regulations related to sponsored research administration.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, including faculty, department administrators, research offices, and other University partners, to facilitate timely and successful proposal submissions.
• Monitor proposal timelines and manage competing priorities to meet internal and external deadlines.
• Utilize research administration systems and tools to prepare, track, and submit proposal materials.
• Identify potential compliance issues and proactively recommend solutions to support successful submissions.
• Maintain strong working relationships with faculty and administrators while providing high-quality customer service and research administration expertise.

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 3+ years of related experience in sponsored research administration, research operations, grants management, or a similar academic or research environment.
• Experience supporting sponsored research activities within a higher education, research institution, or similar environment.
• Knowledge of and ability to interpret federal and non-federal research regulations, sponsor guidelines, and compliance requirements.
• Ability to analyze complex information and provide guidance related to proposal development and research administration processes.
• Experience using multiple internal and external systems related to research administration.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and time management skills.
• Ability to remain calm, organized, and effective while managing competing priorities and time-sensitive submissions.

Please include a cover letter and resume with your application.

We welcome applicants at varying stages of their careers, from early-career professionals to experienced research administrators. Titles and levels will be determined based on education, experience, and demonstrated expertise. Compensation range: $70,000 - $100,000, commensurate with experience. 

Application due by July 15, 2026

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.