Lead Cost Analyst

The Cost Analysis and Compliance Unit in the Office of Sponsored Programs is comprised in part by the Cost Accounting team. The Lead Cost Analyst position will be tasked with performing, where needed, all day-to-day responsibilities assigned to the Cost Accounting team. Additionally, the position will provide mentorship and guidance to other team members, when necessary.Primary job responsibilities for the Lead Cost Analyst position include ensuring institutional Research Service Centers (RSC) operate in compliance with federal guidelines and University operating standards and procedures. This position coordinates with departments on campus to conduct detailed analyses using ConnectCarolina and Infoporte to complete financial compliance and rate reviews at minimum, once every two years for all University Research Service Centers. The Lead Cost Analyst provides effective customer service, technical support, and consulting services to the RSCs, administrators, and institutional stakeholders to ensure RSCs maintain operational effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance in the rate development and review process. Responsibilities also include ensuring the timely tracking and filing of all RSC related updates and documentation.The position also performs other cost analysis functions and completes special projects including, but not limited to, assisting with the Facilities and Administrative (F&A) Cost rate proposal and calculating employee fringe benefit rates for sponsored agreement budgeting.The Lead Cost Analyst will serve as the first line of oversight to closely monitor compliance within the team and the university research enterprise. The position will utilize strong communication skills to accurately identify and describe any concerns to leadership in OSP and within the campus community. The position will collaborate with the Cost Accounting and Central Effort Manager to initiate, support, and implement corrective action to ensure and improve RSC compliance. The Lead Cost Analyst will also serve as the first line of oversight into the RSC tracking process, working with the Cost Analyst to identify and correct any errors to ensure that accurate data is derived from Smartsheet and that reviews are completed on schedule.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements Mid-career with Masters and 1-2 yrs experience; or Bachelors and 2-4 yrs experience
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Ability to analyze operational and financial data
• Sound knowledge of accounting principles
• Strong communication skills
• Strong knowledge of ledger systems, spreadsheets, databases, and word processing applications
• Ability to prioritize and complete responsibilities independently with a high level of accuracy

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Previous experience with Research Service Centers
• Experience with accounting systems in a university setting
• Experience with federal grants and post-award administration
• Working knowledge of applicable federal Circulars (Uniform Guidance and A-21) and state regulations
• Previous experience in F&A cost rate proposal development and rate oversight
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) certification preferred

Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority ResponsibilitiesNot Applicable.
Special InstructionsWork Schedule
Monday – Friday | 8:00am – 5:00pm
Quick LinkPosting Contact InformationDepartment Contact Name and Title James Pike | Sr. Cost Accounting/Central Effort Mgr
Department Contact Telephone or Email james_pike@unc.edu
Office of Human Resources Contact InformationIf 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
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer StatementThe 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.

University of North Carolina