[Hiring] Research Project Budget & Contract Administration Assistant @Penn State University

Role Description

The Piazza Center is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Research Project Budget & Contract Administration Assistant to support the Center’s contract, billing, and financial administration processes. Working closely with the Executive Director and Research Project Manager, this position will support the financial and administrative operations of the Center and its research projects. Responsibilities include:

• Tracking expenditures and revenue
• Maintaining the sales and contract pipeline
• Coordinating contract processing and signatures
• Facilitating invoicing and accounts receivable processes
• Processing subcontractor and contributor payments

This role will help ensure contracts, payments, and project finances are managed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule. The position will also support payments to consultants, subcontractors, and other project contributors and maintain accurate documentation to ensure financial and contractual activities are completed accurately and on schedule.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Penn State fiscal processes and systems, including SIMBA and related fiscal tools
• Experience working in a university, research, nonprofit, or similarly complex administrative environment
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple contracts, invoices, deadlines, and financial transactions simultaneously
• Experience with financial administration, contract processing, invoicing, accounts receivable, or related administrative functions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and electronic recordkeeping systems
• Ability to work independently and maintain confidential information

Requirements

• Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies

Company Description

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.