MN-GEMS Business Analyst/Specialist

The MN-GEMS Analyst/Specialist provides technical support, system troubleshooting, and end user support for the University of Minnesota's electronic grants management system, MN-GEMS (a Huron software product). This role plays a critical part in supporting Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) operations by proactively identifying system errors, collaborating on integration errors, ensuring data accuracy, and maintaining seamless workflow support across the research enterprise.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Troubleshooting & User Support (40%)
System Troubleshooting: Act as a primary point of contact to investigate, diagnose, and potentially resolve day-to-day technical challenges and functionality issues within the MN-GEMS system.
Integration & Module Problem-Solving: Partner with ORIS and the EFS module support team to help identify and resolve integration errors between MN-GEMS modules and external systems.
System Change Management: Work with SPA leadership to help inform business-side system changes, fixes, upgrades, and feature enhancements in collaboration with Office of Research Information Systems (ORIS).
Work with the SPA Training Team to identify MN-GEMS technical issues and implement business process solutions.

SPA Operations & User Support (30%)
Award Set-Up Support: Provide technical assistance to the SPA Award Set-Up Team to resolve system issues during EFS integration.
GCO Technical Support: Assist SPA Grant and Contract Officers (GCOs) by troubleshooting system errors, providing quick-turnaround technical solutions, and resolving workflow obstacles in MN-GEMS.
Helpdesk Management: Respond to business- and system-specific tickets via the MN-GEMS Helpdesk, logging trends to suggest ongoing system and process improvements.
MN-GEMS Lab support

Data Quality & Reporting Analysis (20%)
Data Inconsistency Identification: Collaborate closely with the reporting specialist to review data issues and recommend solutions that safeguard data integrity.

Documentation & Process Improvement (10%)
Maintain, record, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), technical workflows, and system documentation for MN-GEMS processes.
Work cross-functionally across SPA and departmental teams to keep documentation current alongside system updates.

Flexible Work Profile
The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) endorse a "Work with Flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. This means the incumbent may work remotely, partially remotely, or entirely in the office. Currently, many SPA staff have opted to work remotely.

Regardless of their remote work status, the MN-GEMS Business Analyst/Specialist will be expected to attend certain in-person work events throughout the year. Out-of-state candidates will be considered if their qualifications and experience are exceptionally strong.

Regardless of work location, work processes will be digital and paperless. Employees will be provided with University-configured equipment and supportive technology tools. Employees who choose to perform some or all of their duties remotely will be responsible for providing reliable internet access and appropriate home-office furnishings.

SPA management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree plus at least two years of relevant work experience in business/systems process analysis, or a master's degree.
Demonstrated willingness and capacity to quickly learn and master MN-GEMS (a Huron product) and its underlying modular architecture.
Excellent computer skills with proficiency in core Microsoft Office applications.
Proven track record of troubleshooting technical challenges and facilitating solutions on time.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a core technical liaison.
Exceptional organizational, prioritization, and multi-tasking skills. Technical writing and communication

The Office of Sponsored Projects Administration supports faculty in seeking, acquiring, and managing externally sponsored funding for research, training, and public service projects.

Pay Range: $65,000.00 - $85,009.60 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.