Northeastern University
Research Finance Compliance Specialist
Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, us, 02298
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Research Finance Compliance Specialist
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Northeastern University
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About The Opportunity This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Job Summary The Research Finance Compliance Specialist supports the functions of the central NU-RES Finance office within Northeastern University Research Enterprise Services (NU-RES) by assisting with the oversight of financial operations and processes of the research portfolio. Under the supervision of the Senior Compliance Specialist, the Compliance Specialist is responsible for assisting with Effort Reporting functions, reviewing Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) forms, and monitoring other research compensation processes for the portfolio.
The Research Finance Compliance Specialist acts as the authorized approver of PDCs in the K2 system and is responsible for verifying salary costs are timely, allocable, and properly justified for the work being performed on the projects. This position requires post-award knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements. The specialist ensures that the effort and salary allocations follow applicable federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies. Other core duties include assisting with the University’s annual payroll certification process, summer salary reviews, organizing supporting documentation in SharePoint, preparing monthly metrics, and performing internal post-audit checks.
The Research Finance Compliance Specialist is expected to use independent judgement and discretion in reviewing payroll expenses, working collaboratively with HR Payroll, Department/College administrators, Principal Investigators, and other NU-RES personnel. They must be able to use VPN and work electronically to perform their role. They are expected to work in various electronic systems, be technologically savvy, and able to navigate through the financial system (Banner), proposal systems (COEUS, eCLAWS), and HR systems (Workday & K2).
This role must prioritize effective compliance, stay updated on sponsor rules, regulations, and policy changes, as well as institutional best practices in research administration and finance. Participate in sponsored research initiatives and projects as assigned, and lead the adoption of best practices to ensure high-quality standards are met.
Minimum Qualifications
BS/BA in a related field required
2 years research administration experience required
In lieu of degree, 4 years research administration experience required
Excellent written and verbal communication skills required, with the ability to interact with management and senior leadership
Knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, prioritize duties, and meet deadlines
Effective in independent and collaborative work
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint, Outlook) and other analytical tools
Strong customer service and organizational skills
Job Duties Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) Reviews (50%)
Review PDC requests in K2 for compliance with regulations and sponsor terms. Validate costs by reviewing Banner budgets, Award Notices, Proposal documents (COEUS), etc.
Verify PDCs are timely, allocable, and justified. Ensure salary caps are correctly calculated.
Collaborate with PIs and Departments to reinforce policies and best practices.
Annual Certification & Other Compensation Procedures (25%)
Assist with annual certification process, document and file in SharePoint, and support recertification requests.
Support off-contract salary reviews during summer salary season.
Prepare reports for grants with specific effort/labor requirements.
Support NURES training sessions as needed.
Metrics Reporting & Post-Audit Reviews (20%)
Distribute metrics reports to leadership for operational insights.
Review Cognos payroll reports for compliance. Coordinate with departments to correct salary postings in closeout status.
Audits and Special Projects (5%)
Support internal and external audits, site visits, and reviews. Ensure proper documentation is collected and submitted.
Position Type Legal and Regulatory Administration
Additional Information Northeastern University considers experience, education, and skills when extending offers. Benefits include medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, and transportation. More info at https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/.
All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of protected characteristics.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type 109S
Expected Hiring Range $66,851.00 - $94,427.75
Starting salary depends on education, experience, location, knowledge, skills, and comparison to similar roles. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and may change.
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Research Finance Compliance Specialist
role at
Northeastern University
Increase your chances of reaching the interview stage by reading the complete job description and applying promptly. 2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About The Opportunity This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Job Summary The Research Finance Compliance Specialist supports the functions of the central NU-RES Finance office within Northeastern University Research Enterprise Services (NU-RES) by assisting with the oversight of financial operations and processes of the research portfolio. Under the supervision of the Senior Compliance Specialist, the Compliance Specialist is responsible for assisting with Effort Reporting functions, reviewing Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) forms, and monitoring other research compensation processes for the portfolio.
The Research Finance Compliance Specialist acts as the authorized approver of PDCs in the K2 system and is responsible for verifying salary costs are timely, allocable, and properly justified for the work being performed on the projects. This position requires post-award knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements. The specialist ensures that the effort and salary allocations follow applicable federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies. Other core duties include assisting with the University’s annual payroll certification process, summer salary reviews, organizing supporting documentation in SharePoint, preparing monthly metrics, and performing internal post-audit checks.
The Research Finance Compliance Specialist is expected to use independent judgement and discretion in reviewing payroll expenses, working collaboratively with HR Payroll, Department/College administrators, Principal Investigators, and other NU-RES personnel. They must be able to use VPN and work electronically to perform their role. They are expected to work in various electronic systems, be technologically savvy, and able to navigate through the financial system (Banner), proposal systems (COEUS, eCLAWS), and HR systems (Workday & K2).
This role must prioritize effective compliance, stay updated on sponsor rules, regulations, and policy changes, as well as institutional best practices in research administration and finance. Participate in sponsored research initiatives and projects as assigned, and lead the adoption of best practices to ensure high-quality standards are met.
Minimum Qualifications
BS/BA in a related field required
2 years research administration experience required
In lieu of degree, 4 years research administration experience required
Excellent written and verbal communication skills required, with the ability to interact with management and senior leadership
Knowledge of Uniform Guidance cost principles, federal salary caps, and effort reporting requirements
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, prioritize duties, and meet deadlines
Effective in independent and collaborative work
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint, Outlook) and other analytical tools
Strong customer service and organizational skills
Job Duties Payroll Distribution Change (PDC) Reviews (50%)
Review PDC requests in K2 for compliance with regulations and sponsor terms. Validate costs by reviewing Banner budgets, Award Notices, Proposal documents (COEUS), etc.
Verify PDCs are timely, allocable, and justified. Ensure salary caps are correctly calculated.
Collaborate with PIs and Departments to reinforce policies and best practices.
Annual Certification & Other Compensation Procedures (25%)
Assist with annual certification process, document and file in SharePoint, and support recertification requests.
Support off-contract salary reviews during summer salary season.
Prepare reports for grants with specific effort/labor requirements.
Support NURES training sessions as needed.
Metrics Reporting & Post-Audit Reviews (20%)
Distribute metrics reports to leadership for operational insights.
Review Cognos payroll reports for compliance. Coordinate with departments to correct salary postings in closeout status.
Audits and Special Projects (5%)
Support internal and external audits, site visits, and reviews. Ensure proper documentation is collected and submitted.
Position Type Legal and Regulatory Administration
Additional Information Northeastern University considers experience, education, and skills when extending offers. Benefits include medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, and transportation. More info at https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/.
All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of protected characteristics.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type 109S
Expected Hiring Range $66,851.00 - $94,427.75
Starting salary depends on education, experience, location, knowledge, skills, and comparison to similar roles. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and may change.
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