Research Accountant

Brock University is located on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Agreement.

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Post End Date:

October 24, 2024

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

About the Role:
Reporting to the Manager, Research Accounting, the Research Accountant is responsible for managing the financial aspects of a portfolio of research grants and projects by performing a range of financial services that include: authorization of research expenses, cheque deposits, account management, and preparation of financial statements. You will also provide expert financial advice and support to researchers and administrators to ensure that Brock’s research administration is compliant with the funding agency policies and aligned with the University’s mission and goals pertaining to research services.

The Research Accountant will: 

• Review all spending being charged to research grants & projects and evaluate expenses against the compliance and eligibility criteria of the relevant funding agency and Brock’s spending and purchasing policies;
• Provide guidance and consultation to researchers to ensure compliance and support them in securing research funds;
• Randomly audit financial transactions for eligibility and compliance with funding agency rules;
• Receive payment notifications from funding agencies and allocate payments to proper accounts;
• Incorporate grants & awards from new funding sources into Brock’s process of management oversight and control;
• Open and close research accounts as required;
• Prepare financial reports according to schedules defined by funding agencies, ensure they are signed by the principal researcher, and request information from researchers accordingly;
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies between the researcher and funding agency;
• Monitor funding agency requirements and report changes to affected parties;
• Make recommendations on the development of institutional policies and the amendment of existing policies with respect to the administration of research funds;
• Regularly communicate eligibility, compliance, and best practices to those with research responsibilities.

Key Skills and Experience:

• An undergraduate degree in accounting or business and a minimum of two (2) years’ relevant experience;
• Knowledge of research funding agencies and relevant financial controls;
• Advanced writing skills to articulate ideas and opinions that involve analysis, interpretation, and assessment;
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities and work collaboratively;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with strong attention to detail and accuracy;
• Strong consultative & advisory skills with the ability to tactfully and diplomatically affirm decisions;
• Ability to establish and maintain sound working relationships with various key stakeholders;
• Excellent communication and presentation skills;
• Strong evaluation skills with the ability to exercise good judgement.

Preferred or Asset Skills: 

• Previous experience conducting audits;
• Professional accounting designation or active pursuit of a professional accounting designation is preferred.

Salary and Total Rewards: 

• Job Grade K, Salary Scale ($57,400-$98,400);
• Target Hiring Range: $57,400-$74,000;
• This position includes full comprehensive benefits including tuition waiver. 

We are committed to offering flexible work arrangements where possible as outlined in our Flexible Work Arrangement Policy. As a student-centered organization, all employees are required to work on campus as needed.

 

Brock University is committed to creating a respectful and equitable workplace. We strive to foster a culture of diversity and inclusion in our work and learning environments. We welcom