Data Management Specialist

Posting Information

Posting Information

Department Office of Sponsored Programs-621100 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open Date 07/08/2026 Application Deadline 07/28/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Working Title Data Management Specialist Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty Position Number 00000402 Vacancy ID NF0009878 Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent FTE 1 Hours per week 40 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $52,000 - $57,000 Proposed Start Date 08/17/2026

Position Information

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A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) partners with the research community to support and advance the University's research mission by providing leadership and expertise in research administration. OSP facilitates and manages all aspects of sponsored research administration for over $1B in sponsored awards each year while developing and maintaining strong relationships with campus partners and external sponsors. OSP is responsible for the following primary functions: (1) proposal review and submission, (2) award negotiation, (3) award management, (4) financial reporting and cash management, (5) F&A rate development, negotiation, and review, (6) cost analysis and research service center (recharge) rate development, (7) monitoring and oversight of time and effort reporting, (8) oversight of regulatory compliance, (9) training and development for research administration personnel, and (10) Project closeout and final reporting requirements. OSP provides complete sponsored project life cycle support (sometimes known as pre-award and post-award services) to faculty and staff.

There are four functional areas of responsibility within the Office of Sponsored Programs, which have the following types of positions: (1) program administration; (2) accounting, financial reporting, and cash management; (3) data management reporting and analysis; and (4) financial compliance, effort reporting, cost studies, and cost accounting standards (CAS).

OSP serves as the official institutional signatory for the Chancellor and is responsible for reviewing and authorizing proposal submissions, as well as negotiating and administering awards on behalf of the University. These activities include monitoring institutional compliance for research and training activities, pre-award services, billing and financial reporting, cash management, cost analysis and compliance of research-related activities, verification of technical report and patent & invention report submissions by principal investigators (PIs), award closeout, and the implementation of information technology into research administration activities. OSP's centralized administrative functions facilitate the development and implementation of standardized policies & procedures across the University. They also provide training opportunities to improve University-wide efficiencies and communication to increase the quality of research administration.

Position Summary

The Data Management Specialist is responsible for reviewing and processing budget loads for new awards, amendments, modifications, and budget revisions involving non-restricted funds. This role ensures accuracy and compliance by reviewing and analyzing information and identifying and resolving errors before entering data into the system - often exercising independent decision-making to meet deadlines. It also involves addressing complex scenarios and supporting the development of related processes and policies. The position performs financial analysis, generates reports to monitor and validate transactions, and maintains data integrity across systems. A high degree of accuracy is essential, as errors could result in financial loss for the University, audit disallowances, and reputational risk for the Office of Sponsored Programs.

In addition, the Data Management Specialist provides guidance and training to Award Management and Financial Reporting staff on budget loads, revisions, and account code selection. Serving as a subject matter expert for sponsored project data entry and system use, the role supports staff with questions and system needs, interprets relevant policies, contributes to the development and enhancement of research administration and financial management procedures, reports, and documentation. The position delivers high-quality, efficient service, focusing on customer satisfaction, actively collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, participating in committees, and ensuring the delivery of accurate and reliable financial information.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Entry-level with Masters; or Bachelors and 0-2 yrs experience

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Knowledge of accounting, budgeting, and business practices, including the ability to analyze and report on financial data within complex financial systems.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and apply sponsor terms, conditions, and financial requirements related to research awards.
• Demonstrated strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills with the ability to perform work accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner.
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to understand, interpret, and apply the fiscal requirements, terms, and conditions of many sponsoring agencies.
• Demonstrated strong customer service skills.
• Demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences (e.g. PIs, department representatives, campus units, external partners).
• Ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels, demonstrating professionalism, diplomacy, courtesy, and tact.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze financial data from a complex financial system.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Experience in a university sponsored research office or equivalent setting.
• Experience with UNC-CH systems such as RAMSeS, ConnectCarolina, and Infoporte.
• Ability to perform high-volume data entry with a strong emphasis on touch typing and 10-key proficiency.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/321973

Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title Jamie Strickland, Human Resources Consultant Department Contact Telephone or Email linens@email.unc.edu Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

Optional Documents

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • Please select the response below that describes your level of education that best or mostly closely satisfies the education requirements for this position.
• Bachelor's degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
• Bachelor's degree in any field/discipline
• Master's degree or Doctorate degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
• Master's degree or Doctorate degree in any field/discipline
• None of the above