The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, advanced manufacturing, and conference services. Driving Economic Transformation is at the heart of everything we do at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. WE discover breakthroughs, create opportunity, grow innovation, power progress, and host greatness. Each of our divisions plays a critical role in daily preserving and delivering this mission.

As a member of the Manufacturing Advancement team, you will manage the department's finance details to ensure compliance, reconcile expenditures, and maintain budget details. You will perform diversified and complex administrative, financial, and pre-and post-award budgetary functions. You will provide sponsored programs support and general fiscal and administrative support while interpreting and communicating federal, state, and IALR policies and regulations. You will support complex external and internal department operations, focusing on finance and contract administration.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Research Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2–3 years experience in finance management, including budget planning, analysis, and reporting. Also, experience with general accounting processes and principles.
• Experience managing federal, state, and private contracts preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, analyze and configure financial and contractual information.
• Ability to process vague, abstract verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work under stress, interruptions and tight deadlines.
• A working knowledge of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Procurement Guidelines is preferred.
• Highly developed organizational and planning skills, time management skills, and written/oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and presentation skills (experience building, evaluating and clearly presenting complex business models is critical) and the ability to communicate and work effectively with others.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

What IALR Offers

• Salary is commensurate with your experience
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage with lower-than-average costs to you
• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System for your retirement savings needs
• A fast-paced, innovative work environment that welcomes you and the unique qualities that you bring.

Why is the position open?

Because of the growth of our campus through success in our many programs, we’re looking for a Grants & Contract Specialist. This is a new position that is funded by state, federal, and private sources because of the success of our Manufacturing Advancement team in executing the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) Program in partnership with the Department of the Navy. The position is funded through June 2025. IALR will continue to request funding beyond 2025.

How to Apply

Apply online at www.ialr.org/careers. Interviews will begin as qualified applicants are identified.