Research Grants & Financial Analyst

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. Join one of Canada’s top applied research colleges, innovate for the future and bring industry-generated ideas and game-changing technologies to life. 

The Opportunity

Job classification: P2043 - Project Coordinator Salary range: $77,000–$82,000 Placement within the range is typically based upon a review of skills, experience, and internal equity.  Hours per week: 37.5 Paid leave: 4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year Position End Date: July 16, 2027 Deadline to apply: 4:00PM, July 16, 2026

Reporting to the Research Operations and Strategic Analysis Lead, the AGFA serves as a strategic financial liaison supporting the Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) department. This role leads financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and accounting activities to ensure alignment with institutional policies, procedures, and external funding requirements. The AGFA collaborates closely with internal stakeholders and funding agencies to enable informed decision‑making, accurate financial management, and responsible stewardship of research resources.

How you'll contribute Support financial management of project portfolios from initiation to completion, providing guidance to direct reports

Assist in budget planning and participate in strategic financial discussions

Prepare salary analysis and forecasting to inform budgeting and financial reporting

Coordinate financial systems setup and ensure proper account structures for projects

Support Research Chairs, Operational Leads, and internal stakeholders in forecasting spending, monitoring project performance, and resolving financial challenges

Monitor and track project financials, including forecasting and metrics reporting

Provide guidance on project expenses, cost eligibility, and compliance with funding requirements

Coordinate time tracking and reporting to ensure accurate allocation of resources

Assist with project costing, including allocation reviews, salary analyses, and reconciliations

Assess project costs for compliance with funding agreements and assist with documentation and funding claims

Monitor and reconcile project funding activity, including operating and capital accounts

Assist with expense and cost reclassifications to ensure accuracy and policy compliance

Track and report government grant usage, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external funding requirements

Maintain and update financial systems and records for grants and industry contributions

Track accounts receivable, provide updates to the A/R team, and follow up on outstanding invoices

What you bring Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance

Minimum three years of experience in a finance‑focused role with progressive responsibility

Preferred

CPA designation with at least three years of related experience

Two to three years of experience in a research environment, including reporting to funding agencies such as PrairiesCan

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Skills Required

Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and innovative thinking

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information to non‑financial audiences

Technical experience with system upgrades, troubleshooting, and implementation

Leadership and project management skills, with the ability to drive projects to completion

Strong critical thinking, collaboration, and political awareness when working with multiple stakeholders

Customer‑focused approach with strong interpersonal skills

Highly organized with strong attention to detail

Effective time management to meet deadlines

We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in this opportunity. We understand how important communication is, and we are committed to following up with every candidate. Please know that each application is thoughtfully reviewed, and you will hear from us either way.

Together, we build bold futures 

At SAIT, we equip you with the resources you need to shape bold futures for yourself and our communities. We offer a comprehensive package including: 

• Generous time off to pursue other passions and support your wellbeing
• SAIT paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision benefits so you, and your family, are well supported
• Benefits supporting mental health and access to Greenshield + for virtual therapy at a reduced rate
• Access to a Health Spending or Taxable Spending Account
• Professional development opportunities through our Free Seat Program, tuition support, access to LinkedIn Learning and discounted Continuing Education & Professional Studies courses
• Defined Benefit pension through LAPP to help you retire with confidence
• Excellent dining options on campus
• Free access to our fitness facilities and group fitness classes

And the perks keep on coming!  

About SAIT 

At SAIT, we’re building bold futures. We’re a community of tenacious problem-solvers, inventive thinkers, and passionate collaborators who believe in doing work that matters.  

Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we’re driven by a desire to create an impact in our community. If you’re looking for a place where purpose meets possibility, you’ve found it here. 

We’re committed to community and belonging  

Community and belonging is essential to achieving SAIT's vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about Community and Belonging at SAIT.