Accountant 3 - Utility Accountant - Office of Research Accounting

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: Finance and Business is a values driven organization that supports thousands of University faculty, staff, and students, while also providing services to the broader community and society.
The Office of Budget and Finance is part of the Finance and Business team and has a vision to recruit, develop and retain outstanding people who efficiently provide exceptional service in support of Penn State’s teaching, research and public service missions.
Our values model those of Penn State's and we firmly believe in the value of Respect, which encourages us to "respect and honor the dignity of each person, embrace civil discourse, and foster a diverse and inclusive community.
" As an incoming team member in the Office of Budget and Finance, it will be expected that all employees embody and model Penn State's and Finance and Business's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Office of Research Accounting is the University’s post-award, accounts receivable function for sponsored research projects, funded by Federal, Commonwealth and private institutions.
The mission is to facilitate the timely and accurate reimbursement of sponsored expenditures and provide reliable and meaningful financial information to the management, sponsors, and our partners.
The vision is to develop a cohesive team to sustain our systems and processes to provide excellent service.
The office is seeking a highly adaptable individual for the role of Utility Accountant (Accountant 3).
The successful candidate would be able to prepare documents, including invoices, financial reports, forecasts, and management reports.
Review grants, contracts and interpret University policy to ensure compliance; and confer with contract negotiators to resolve issues accordingly.
Liaise with departments and sponsors to seek opportunities to improve the processing of non-standardized and specialized invoicing.
Develop, recommend and implement procedures to ensure uniform and efficient accounting practices, internal controls, and compliance with regulations and University policy.
Oversee proper classification and coding of income and expenditures.
Monitor, analyze and resolve complex accounting and accounts receivable issues, which may involve dialog with University departments and external sponsors.
Perform reconciliations of complex accounts in a timely and accurate manner to ensure full compliance with University policies and internal controls.
Develop the knowledge base and the ability to backup critical functions within the Department.
Prepare special reports and provide information to various federal, state and external agencies.
Other reporting duties include: gathering data, maintaining databases, and maintaining process documentation.
Review, collect and analyze information while responding to audit queries and compliance issues.
Provide backup in times of transition for all four teams within Research Accounting.
This position reports directly to the Director of Research Accounting and will be tasked with a diverse set of assignments.
Typically requires a Bachelor's degree or higher plus four years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with MS Office Suite software and knowledge of SIMBA (SAP/S4HANA) is preferred.
Ability to communicate clearly and accurately both verbally and in writing, strong organizational skills, and proven record of success as a member of a professional team are desirable.
This position is eligible for full remote work.
Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms.
We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive.
We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR).
The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters.
The ASR is available for review here .
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.