Staff Accountant Finance

Position Overview

This position is responsible for performing accounting functions, recording and reporting a variety of financial transactions. This includes processing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and involvement in the annual audit. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position that reports to the Controller. It is not exempt from provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is eligible to earn overtime pay for hours worked above 40 in a single work week. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare journal entries along with supporting documentation for review and approval. Ensure all approved journal entries are entered into the general ledger on a timely and accurate basis.
• Prepare monthly account analysis and reconciliation of assigned general ledger accounts, including bank reconciliations, while identifying, investigating, and reporting discrepancies and ensuring timely clearance of reconciling items.
• Ensure a timely, thorough, and accurate month-end close process.
• Provide information to faculty, staff, and students; explain transactions and resolve accounting issues and discrepancies.
• Assist in year-end audit preparation.
• Process all gift batches from Advancement.
• Manage the purchasing card process, including hosting training and information sessions with card holders.
• Review project codes.
• Assist with the fixed asset process and posting.
• Post departmental deposits.
• Handle external invoicing for the campus.
• Assist with payroll tasks.
• Assist with daily banking entries for depository accounts.
• Provide coverage for Accounts Payable and Purchase Order processes as needed.
• Create process documentation and instructions.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of student and university information in adherence to FERPA and other applicable regulations.
• Perform backup duties for Finance Office personnel as assigned.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned to meet department and university needs.

Required Qualifications:

• 1-3 years of general ledger accounting experience, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit setting.
• Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel and experienced with accounting software and Windows-based applications; Jenzabar experience is preferred.
• Proven exceptional attention to detail with the ability to consistently produce error-free results.
• Demonstrated organization, follow-up, and follow-through skills to ensure completion of goals and objectives.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with the capacity to effectively prioritize multiple competing tasks and demands.
• Proven ability to convey complex accounting information in a concise and easily understood manner to a wide range of constituencies.
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new knowledge and skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a proactive communication track record.
• Proven ability to identify, define, analyze, and resolve complex problems.
• Exceptional follow-up and follow-through skills with the ability to plan, organize, and control projects through to completion.
• Ability to handle and maintain confidential information.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Benefits & Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Domestic partner benefits
• A 403b retirement plan with options for pre-tax or post-tax (Roth) contributions and a generous match
• Vacation and generous paid holidays
• Tuition remission and tuition exchange
• Queens-paid life insurance, supplemental life insurance, and dependent life insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance, disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts (medical, dependent care, Health Savings Account)
• Sick leave and long-term disability leave
• Paid parental leave and FMLA leave when eligible
• Reduced cost meals and access to wellness programs, including free access to the Levine Center and an employee assistance program (EAP)
• Additional benefit options such as pet insurance, critical care insurance, and legal assistance