Senior Cost Analyst

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

The Senior Cost Analyst is responsible for supporting research-related cost analysis, effort reporting review, and financial reporting functions across the Office of Research. Reporting to the Senior Director of Cost Analysis and Financial Reporting, and working closely with the Assistant Director of Effort and Financial Reporting, this role plays a key part in ensuring compliance with federal Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), supporting institutional cost studies, and contributing to the preparation of reports and dashboards for internal and external stakeholders. This is an entry-level professional position for candidates with strong analytical and financial system skills looking to grow within the research administration field.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibility but may coordinate with peers and provide support for internal projects and process improvement initiatives.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

The Senior Cost Analyst works closely with the Senior Director and Assistant Director to analyze research expenditures, assist with effort reporting data, and generate required institutional and sponsor-facing reports. The role involves collaboration with post-award administrators, budget personnel, compliance staff, and academic units.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Analyze research expenditures and labor distributions in Workday to support federal reporting and internal decision-making.
• Assist with quarterly effort certification review processes and help resolve discrepancies in labor cost allocations.
• Support development of financial and compliance dashboards for university leadership.
• Prepare data extracts and summary reports for the HERD survey, F&A proposal development, and other required reports.
• Conduct reconciliations and internal reviews of research accounts to ensure compliance with cost principles.
• Assist with fringe rate development and cost pool analysis as needed.
• Monitor and track research expenditures to support trend analysis and forecasting models.
• Collaborate with IT and finance teams to enhance data integration and reporting accuracy between systems (Workday, Cayuse, etc.).
• Maintain internal documentation of cost methodologies and reporting processes.
• Support the response to audits and information requests related to financial and effort data.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Working knowledge of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200) and federal cost principles.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in financial data review.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as Workday and data tools such as Excel or Power BI.
• Interest in research administration and understanding of effort reporting processes.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to continuous learning and collaborative teamwork.
• Strong work ethic, accountability, and curiosity.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Data Analytics, Public Administration, or a related field.
• 2–3 years of relevant experience in financial analysis, research administration, or grant compliance preferred.
• Experience working in higher education or research environments desirable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and comfort with large data sets.
• Familiarity with sponsored programs systems (e.g., Workday, Cayuse) is a plus.
• CRA or CFRA certification is not required but may be pursued while in role.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Compensation Range: $95,000 - $105,000