Title:  Contracts and Grants Administration Manager - Limited Service

Overview

The Department of Libraries seeks a highly skilled and experienced Grants and Contracts Administration Manager to oversee and manage the allocation and compliance of significant federal funds, including the US Treasury American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Capital Fund and Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grants. This critical role serves as the principal contact for these grant programs and ensures adherence to federal and state regulations throughout the grant lifecycle. The successful candidate will manage $26.4 million in federal funds designated for public library capital projects and ensure these projects meet completion deadlines and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:
•    Grant Management and Oversight:  Supervise the Library Grants Specialist and oversee the administration of the ARPA Capital Fund and CDS HUD grants. Ensure all projects align with federal regulations and guidelines.
•    Compliance and Regulation: Develop and implement effective tracking and monitoring systems to oversee grant expenditures and compliance. Advise and guide on compliance issues, recommend corrective actions, and manage the denial of funding or reimbursement requests for non-compliant projects.
•    Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary liaison with public library municipalities, non-profit organizations, and federal agencies. Participate in public hearings, meetings, and committees as the lead representative for grant-related matters.
•    Reporting and Documentation: Prepare detailed reports on grant usage and compliance. Ensure accurate and timely reporting to federal and state agencies as required.
•    Training and Support: Provide essential training and technical assistance to staff and grant recipients on federal grant requirements and compliance.
•    Financial Management: Work closely with AOA Finance and the Library Capital Grants Specialist to manage fund drawdowns and reimbursements, ensuring financial activities are following grant stipulations.

Additional Information:
•    Deadline Oriented: Must ensure all projects are completed and fully compliant by December 31, 2026.
•    Financial Stewardship: Responsible for managing a significant budget totaling $26.4 million in federal funds.
•    Work Environment: The position requires patience, diligence, and the ability to effectively interact with stakeholders who may have limited experience with federal grant regulations.

Who May Apply

This position, Contracts and Grants Administration Manager - Limited Service (Job Requisition #55513), is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs. 
If you would like more information about the duration of this position or other details, please contact jessica.leal@vermont.gov
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail.  You must apply online to be considered.

Environmental Factors

Duties are performed in a standard office setting but may involve some travel for which private means of transportation is required. Some evening or overtime work may be necessary. Interaction with grantees, contractors and consultants through phone contact is required.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in accounting, business management, financial auditing, grants administration, or another closely related field, AND one (1) year or more of experience in grant, contract, or program management or another relevant closely related field, including program management or supervisory experience.

OR

Four (4) years or more of combined education and experience in accounting, business management, financial auditing, grants administration, or another relevant field, including one (1) year of program management or supervisory experience.

OR

At least one (1) year as a Contracts & Grants Administrator in Vermont State service.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference for candidates who have completed Lean Green belt, Supervising in State Government, Strengths-Based Leadership, facilitation, and program management trainings.

•    Education: Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Finance, Library Science, or a related field, preferred.
•    Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in grant management, preferably with federal grants. Experience in public sector or library management is highly desirable.
•    Skills: Strong understanding of federal grant regulations and financial management. Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
•    Attributes: Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and work under tight deadlines. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

•     80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
•     Work/Life balance: 12 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
•     State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
•     Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
•     Tuition Reimbursement
•     Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
•     Low cost group life insurance
•     Incentive-based Wellness Program
•     Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.