Grants Specialist - job 2 of 2

As a Grants Specialist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, you’ll be responsible for managing various post-award financial transactions related to grant programs. This includes tasks like setting up accounts, overseeing cash management, managing subawards, conducting closeouts, and preparing critical internal and external financial reports that are essential for compliance and transparency.

To apply for the Grants Specialist position at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in a related field or an associate degree combined with at least two years of relevant grants management experience. Alternatively, candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent plus four years of relevant experience can also be considered. Additionally, a minimum of three years in financial management of sponsored programs is required.

At the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Grants Specialists enjoy an array of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, generous holiday and vacation policies, and educational discounts for staff and their dependents. Additionally, UAMS offers retirement plans with up to a 10% matched contribution, basic life insurance, and opportunities for career training and professional development.

To apply for the Grants Specialist position at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, please visit the careers page and look for the link to the application. Make sure to have your cover letter, resume, and any optional documents ready, as you'll need to complete your application online through the University’s system.

The Grants Specialist position at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is subject to pre-employment screening, including a criminal background check. However, it’s important to note that a prior criminal conviction or pending charges, in themselves, do not automatically disqualify an applicant and will be evaluated in relation to the job responsibilities.

When answering this question, highlight specific experiences you've had managing grants, focusing on the types of grants you've worked with and the tasks you performed. Be sure to mention any successful outcomes, such as timely reporting or effective budget management, to showcase your competencies.

In your response, discuss various compliance techniques you've implemented, such as setting up regular audits, creating accountability systems, and staying updated with federal and state regulations regarding grants to ensure adherence.

Talk about your organizational skills here. Mention how you utilize tools or methods for time management, like creating to-do lists or using project management software, to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and deadlines are met.

In your answer, discuss specific reporting tools you've used or experience you have with creating financial reports, including any metrics you track and how you've utilized data to support grant objectives.

Provide an example of a difficult situation, such as a funding shortfall or compliance issue. Focus on how you approached the problem, the steps you took, and the resolution you achieved to illustrate your problem-solving skills.

List the software and tools you’re adept in, like Excel, grant management systems, or database software. Explain how you’ve used these tools to manage grants efficiently and improve workflows.

Describe your process for approaching a new funding initiative, including research phases, stakeholder engagement, and developing proposals. Emphasize your strategic thinking and teamwork skills.

In response, highlight your budgeting experience, including how you create, monitor, and adjust budgets for grant programs. Mention any tools you use to facilitate this process and how you ensure alignment with funding requirements.

Explain your strategies for staying updated on grant regulations, such as attending workshops, following relevant publications, or being part of professional organizations in grant management.

In your answer, touch on your passion for healthcare, research, or supporting community services. Mention how UAMS’s mission resonates with your career aspirations and how you see yourself contributing to their objectives.