Project Researcher (Remote, Entry Level)

Overview

This role is an entry-level full-time Project Finance Researcher position supporting the Justice, Workforce, Preparedness, and Community Development (JWPCD) Line of Business, primarily within the Housing and Community Development team. Reporting to the Grant Finance & Administration Manager, the position provides financial and administrative support for federal contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements, supporting accurate reporting, project controls, and timely coordination across project teams.

Anticipated start is as soon as possible. The role may be fully remote from any U.S. location; preference will be given to candidates able to work within the eastern time zone.

Responsibilities

• Support Project Managers and project staff in preparing financial information for monthly client reporting.
• Provide timely financial status updates to Project Managers and the Finance & Administration Lead, including burn rate, remaining backlog, and project profitability.
• Coordinate invoicing activities and conduct quality reviews for complex government contracts.
• Develop, maintain, and update reports and financial management tools related to project budgets, as needed.
• Communicate regularly with Project Managers and Directors regarding project financial status, risks, and updates.
• Manage and provide quality control for data entry processes in online government systems of record.
• Coordinate the timely preparation of monthly invoices, including detailed line-item cost justifications.
• Provide forecasting support and assist with actual-to-budget comparisons for Project Managers and the Finance & Administration Lead.
• Serve as a regular point of contact for government clients on project financial and administrative matters.
• Collaborate with the Project Finance Controller, Billing team, Project Managers, and Group and Project Control Managers to resolve project-related financial issues.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, procedures, and related guidance materials.
• Assist the Procurement Manager with subcontractor procurement and administration, including direct communication with subcontractors and tracking of applications and budgets.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in Business, Management, Communications, Public Policy, Finance, Economics, or another related discipline.
• Working knowledge of basic finance processes and general accounting principles.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with project teams and stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and recommend solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, discretion, and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1-2 years of professional experience in forecasting, data management, reporting, analysis, compliance, finance, or a related field.
• Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookup functions (e.g., VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP), logical formulas, data validation, and conditional formatting.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze, manipulate, and interpret data to support business decisions.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay range (full-time employment): $55,665.00 - $94,631.00
• Final pay is determined using multiple factors, including relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies aligned to the role, geographic location, education and certifications, and contract provisions regarding labor categories specific to the position.

Location

• Nationwide Remote Office (US99)
• Fully remote from any U.S. location; preference for candidates able to work within the eastern time zone.

Work Authorization

All candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

• This position is not eligible for new H-1B visa sponsorship by the employer.
• Candidates who currently hold valid work authorization may be considered for a change of employer petition, subject to company policy and applicable immigration requirements.

Accommodation / Equal Opportunity

• Reasonable accommodations are available in all phases of the application and employment process for qualified individuals, including disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs.
• Qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.