Principal Financial Analyst Security Clearance

Position Overview

As a Principal Financial Analyst at the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), you will play a critical role in managing and guiding financial activities that support the Institute's mission as a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) sponsored by the U.S. Department of War. You will lead a small team of financial analysts, collaborate with program directors and technical staff, and serve as a key liaison between SEI's financial planning team, program leadership, and Carnegie Mellon University's central finance offices. This position is based onsite 5 days per week at SEI's facility in Pittsburgh, PA.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and perform in-depth financial analyses—including variance analysis, rate projections, and key performance indicators—and prepare, review, and present regular financial reports and dashboards.
• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process while managing the full financial lifecycle from development through execution and closeout.
• Develop long-term financial plans and provide data-driven insights to senior leadership for strategic decision-making.
• Supervise and mentor a team of financial analysts, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and collaboration.
• Ensure adherence to OMB Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and SEI contract requirements while mitigating financial risks.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to coordinate financial management and translate complex financial data into actionable insights.
• Identify opportunities to enhance processes and support ERP and financial system upgrades.
• Coordinate audit responses and develop corrective action plans as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial analysis, budgeting, or forecasting, ideally within a research, nonprofit, higher education, or FFRDC environment.
• Demonstrated leadership experience with direct supervision or mentorship of financial staff.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with a deep understanding of financial management principles.
• Strong proficiency in Excel and experience with enterprise financial systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday).
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and integrity.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• A strategic mindset capable of balancing day-to-day operations with long-term planning.
• Adaptability and resilience in a mission-driven, compliance-oriented environment.