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Director Of Sponsored Programs Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

WGVU Grant Writer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$57K - $67K/yr

This role serves as a liaison between WGVU, the GVSU Office of Sponsored Programs, University Institutional Advancement, and GVSU Grants Accounting. Salary & Benefits: Salary range of $57,500 - $67 ...

... program. Our world-class Productions division creates the best in-venue fan experiences for 9 of ... for sponsor businesses, across mediums including TV & Radio broadcast, websites, social media ...

... sponsored 401k program, health, dental, vision, and life insurance, company-paid electronic devices, and opportunities for professional development. The Labor Relations Director reports directly to ...

Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement, the Director of Advancement will play a key role in building and executing Cleary University's growing advancement program. This position will work ...

Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement, the Director of Advancement will play a key role in building and executing Cleary University's growing advancement program. This position will work ...

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Showing results 1-20

Director Of Sponsored Programs information

See Michigan salary details

$21.5K

$66.9K

$147.1K

How much do director of sponsored programs jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of sponsored programs in Michigan is $66,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,126.00 and $87,378.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director of sponsored programs?

A Director of Sponsored Programs is a senior administrator at a college, university, or research institution who oversees the management of externally funded research projects and grants. This role involves ensuring compliance with funding regulations, developing institutional policies, and supporting faculty and staff in securing and managing grants. The Director acts as a liaison between the institution and sponsors, such as government agencies, foundations, and corporations, to facilitate research activities and ensure proper stewardship of funds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of sponsored programs, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Sponsored Programs, you need expertise in research administration, grant management, compliance, and a relevant degree—often supported by Certified Research Administrator (CRA) certification. Familiarity with grant management systems, federal and state regulatory requirements, and electronic submission portals like Grants.gov is essential. Strong leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal skills set candidates apart by enabling effective collaboration between faculty, administration, and funding agencies. These skills ensure efficient management of sponsored projects, regulatory compliance, and successful funding outcomes for the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of sponsored programs, and how can they be managed effectively?

A Director of Sponsored Programs often navigates the complexities of grant compliance, shifting funding priorities, and coordination among multiple stakeholders, such as faculty, legal teams, and external sponsors. Effective management involves staying current on regulatory changes, fostering strong communication channels within the institution, and implementing robust administrative processes. Building a knowledgeable support team and investing in professional development can also help ensure smooth proposal submissions and post-award management.

What is the difference between Director Of Sponsored Programs vs Sponsored Programs Coordinator?

AspectDirector Of Sponsored ProgramsSponsored Programs Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's degree, experience in grants managementTypically bachelor's degree, entry-level experience
Work EnvironmentSenior role overseeing multiple projects, strategic planningSupports grant processes, administrative tasks
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, non-profitsSame as director, often within the same organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in sponsored programsEntry to mid-level roles assisting in grant management

The Director Of Sponsored Programs typically holds a senior position responsible for overseeing all sponsored projects, strategic planning, and compliance. In contrast, the Sponsored Programs Coordinator focuses on supporting grant processes and administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in research and academic settings, but they differ in scope, responsibilities, and experience required.

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs in Michigan?

For Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Director Of Sponsored Programs job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Of Sponsored Programs job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,912 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Finance Manager, Sponsored Program Administration

Detroit, MI


Wayne State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

291st of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Sponsored Program Administration (SPA) Finance Manager provides leadership and oversight for sponsored program financial staff responsible for preparing and reviewing financial reports in accordance with sponsor requirements and reporting guidelines. This position ensures expenditures, financial transactions, and post-award administrative activities comply with university policies and procedures, external sponsor regulations, and Federal Uniform Guidance requirements. The Sponsored Program Finance Manager reports to the Associate Director, Post Award Services.

Essential Functions:

Oversee the assignment and completion of external interim and final financial reports to ensure all sponsor deadlines are met, compliance requirements are maintained, and institutional funding is protected. Monitor workload distribution and reassign reporting responsibilities as necessary to support operational efficiency and timely submission.

Ensure the timely preparation, review, and submission of accurate interim and final financial reports to external sponsoring and granting agencies in accordance with sponsor requirements and reporting deadlines.

Ensure financial report workpapers are reviewed for compliance with applicable accounting principles, sponsor requirements, and federal, state, and institutional policies and procedures.

Provide subject matter expertise and consultative guidance to Sponsored Program Administration (SPA) staff and the University community on internal and external grant financial policies, compliance requirements, and complex issues related to the administration of sponsored programs.

Perform personnel management responsibilities, including direct supervision of staff, recruitment and hiring activities, performance management, professional development, and recommendations related to promotions and other employment actions.

Assist in the maintenance and continuous improvement of financial reporting policies, procedures, manuals, and operational checklists to support compliance and consistency in reporting practices.

Perform other related duties as assigned.



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