Senior Accountant

University of St. Thomas

Senior Accountant

Department: Business Office

 

Summary

The Senior Accountant is responsible for performing advanced accounting functions that support the University's financial operations. This position assists the Accounting Manager with the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports, month-end and year-end close activities, account reconciliations, audit support, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and University policies. The Senior Accountant works collaboratively with departments across the University to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information and provides analytical support for accounting operations, grants, endowments, and special projects.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain accurate general ledger accounts and supporting schedules.
• Assist the Accounting Manager in preparing accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and other periodic financial reports.
• Perform month-end and year-end closing activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and account analysis.
• Reconcile bank accounts, balance sheet accounts, and other financial records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with the preparation of audit support PBC schedules, supporting documentation, and other auditor requests as assigned by Controller/Accounting Manager.
• Maintain and recommend internal controls and improvements to strengthen financial processes and ensure compliance.
• Assist with accounting for grants and restricted funds, including monitoring expenditures, preparing reconciliations, and supporting required financial reporting.
• Research and apply Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and University policies to accounting transactions.
• Research financial data and prepare ad hoc reports for management as requested.
• Assist in maintaining the integrity of financial data within the University's ERP system.
• Participate in testing and implementation of system upgrades and enhancements affecting accounting processes.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting procedures and operational efficiencies.
• Prepare documentation for updating accounting procedures.
• Provide guidance and support to junior accountant and other business team members on accounting best practices as needed.
• Prepare reports and schedules for internal and external stakeholders as requested.
• Assist with special accounting projects and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
• Higher education or nonprofit accounting experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Experience preparing financial statements, reconciliations, and supporting audit activities.
• Experience with grant and fund accounting is preferred.
• Ability to analyze financial information, identify discrepancies, and recommend appropriate corrective action.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with colleagues across the University.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial personnel.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) financial systems; PeopleSoft experience preferred.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, governmental regulations, and accounting guidance.
• Demonstrated commitment to integrity, customer service, and the mission of the University.

Education

Bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) from an accredited four-year college or university in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or a related business field.

Certification

CPA highly preferred but not