The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA's science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. STScI leads observation planning, data analysis, public engagement, and data archiving for flagship missions. Our staff spans astronomy, engineering, education, IT, communications, and administration-working together to bring space science to the world.
If you are a Grant Administrator or Grant Specialist eager to continue your career in Research Administration, we invite you to join our Grants Administration team at STScI. These positions could support working from home. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV) and be able to report onsite when needed.
You'll play a crucial role in our mission as the sponsor of the grant programs for the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), two of the most powerful space telescopes ever created. You will apply the HST and JWST program policies, procedures, and regulations, including the Uniform Guidance (2CFR200), to award and manage NASA-funded research grants to grant recipients.
There are two roles available, Grants Administrator II and Grants Administrator III:
Grants Administrator II annual salary range: $65-77k. **A minimum of three years of prior grants administration experience with federal research grants is required.**
Grants Administrator III annual salary range: $80-90k. **A minimum of five years of prior grants administration experience with federal research grants and 2 CFR 200 is required**
Responsibilities Include:
• Execute all grant activities in all phases of the grant life-cycle, including pre-award reviews, post-award administration and monitoring, and closeout.
• Work with investigators and research administration staff at institutions to assist with pre-award and proposal questions, evaluate eligibility, and determine cost allowability.
• Provide support and training to institutions related to understanding the STScI General Grant Provisions and using the Space Telescope Grants Management System (STGMS).
• Review business, financial, administrative, and management policies and practices to evaluate risks posed by recipient institutions. Based on your evaluation, you will identify and recommend appropriate levels of recipient monitoring to the Grants Administration management team.
• This position requires occasional availability outside of business core hours and weekends to complete special assignments or to provide support to recipients in Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones. Occasional travel may be required.
Qualifications:
You must be a highly motivated and curious self-starter who thrives in a team environment and takes personal ownership and pride in your work. A minimum of 3 years prior grants administration is required for the Grants Administrator II, and a minimum of 5 years grants administration is required for the Grants Administrator III. Federal research grants experience is required. 2 CFR 200 experience is also required for the Grants Administrator III.
Previous experience with federal research grants is required.
You must possess a Bachelor's degree with transferable skills and abilities, including:
- A commitment to excellence and customer
- Excellent time management and organizational skills, attention detail, the ability to coordinate, plan, and prioritize multiple ongoing tasks or projects to meet stated deadlines.
Substitution of additional relevant education or experience for stated qualifications may be considered.
The posted salary range represents a general guideline; however, STScI considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers, such as internal pay equity, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education, and skill, and current market conditions.
Our excellent benefits include:
- Employer retirement contribution - direct contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day
- 24 days of vacation accrued annually, 10 paid holidays, 12 days sick leave
- Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!
Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Visit our website to learn more about our missions
Apply here: Grants Administrator STScI
TO APPLY: Share your experience by uploading a resume and completing an online application. Applications received by August 2, 2026 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.
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Ref. HRC0010898 and HRC0010890
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