1

Director Of Sponsored Programs Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$150 - $210/hr

Office of Sponsored Programs Administration (20%)** · Direct grant administration activities supporting sponsored programs. · Ensure compliance with federal, sponsor, state, and institutional ...

Showing results 21-40

Director Of Sponsored Programs information

See salary details

$24.5K

$76.2K

$167.5K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of sponsored programs in the United States is $76,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $99,500.00 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.

More about Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs

What cities are hiring for Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs?

Cities with the most Director Of Sponsored Programs job openings:

What states have the most Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Of Sponsored Programs jobs include:

Infographic showing various Director Of Sponsored Programs job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,195 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Sponsored Projects Specialist (Proposals)

University of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Sponsored Projects Specialist (Proposals)
Search Extended until August 24, 2026
Hiring Department: Office of Sponsored Programs - Pre-Award
Location: Chicago, IL USA
Requisition ID: 1041007
Posting Close Date: 5/15/2026
Salary: The budgeted salary range for the position is$70,000 to $85,000.
About the University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
Position Summary
The Sponsored Projects Specialist (SPS) will provide administrative and analytical support for proposal development and submission and non-financial post-award administration to ensure University-sponsored projects comply with regulatory requirements and adhere to University, federal, state, and private sponsor guidelines. The SPS will assist with proposal preparation, including budget preparation and documentation. The SPS will conduct a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of incoming proposals to determine the extent of campus resource commitments, completeness of proposal and budget, and conformity of proposal to University and sponsor regulations, policies, and requirements. The SPS will have delegated authority to submit proposals on behalf of the University. The SPS will serve as the liaison to funding agencies, interpret program guidelines, policies, and eligibility requirements, and communicate to campus personnel through training presentations and other forms of communication.
Duties & Responsibilities
Proposal Review/Administration
  • Review research proposals to ensure institutional compliance with applicable governmental regulations and policies.
  • Provide guidance and expertise to researchers on administrative, financial, and budgeting issues related to funding opportunities, grants, and contracts. Interpret sponsor guidelines and submit proposal applications for external funding to sponsoring agencies.
  • Acts as liaison for the University to sponsors, faculty, and staff. Pursue continuing education on issues and developments in the field of research administration.

  • Policies and Procedures Development/Implementation
  • Develop and implement policies and standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with sponsor rules and regulations.
  • Assist in developing and implementing policies relating to Electronic Research Administration (ERA), i.e., NIH ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace, NSF Research.gov, and other electronic proposal routing and approval programs.
  • Advise faculty and academic unit staff on sponsor policies and procedures and the rules and regulations of the University policies and procedures as they apply to Sponsored Research, including changes thereto.

  • Training/Workshops/Seminars
  • Participate in and/or develop training, workshops, and seminars on issues related to sponsored project administration.
  • Assist in preparing educational materials and communications related to research administration and sponsored project activities.
  • Work with the Assistant/Associate Director to update the OVCR website with the latest information on sponsored programs and electronic research administration policies and procedures.
  • Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

  • Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • One to three years' experience in sponsored program administration, preferably at an institution of higher education and in central or department administration office, office of sponsored programs, office of research administration, university or medical center setting, or federal grant-making agency.
  • Knowledge of the federal regulations and guidelines that govern the conduct of research such as Uniform Guidance 2 CFR Part 200 and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). Basic understanding of fund accounting principles.

  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree.
  • Certification as active Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or comparable certificate.
  • Strong computer knowledge of basic information systems (Word, Excel, Adobe, and other database applications) and web applications.
  • Fluency in Kuali Coeus research administration applications a plus.
  • Demonstrated excellent communication (written and verbal), interpersonal and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to lead, participate in and constructively contribute to a team environment.
  • Demonstrated success in working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams of external /sponsor and internal individuals.

  • The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
    The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

    University of Illinois logo

    About University of Illinois

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

    Industry

    Colleges, universities, and professional schools

    Company size

    5,001 - 10,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Urbana, IL, US

    Year founded

    1974

    Social media