SMU-2123012-General Staff Accountant

Job Summary:

The General Staff Accountant position is primarily responsible for the accounting and detail reconciliation of the Direct Lending Programs provided by the Federal or State agencies, alternative loan programs and HRSA loan programs that provides funds to SMU students. Responsible for all general ledger accounting functions regarding student programs and accounts, SMU unrestricted investment and misc. general accounting analysis. Research and ensures that the regulatory requirements for the direct lending program and HRSA loan programs are being met.

Job Duties and Accountabilities:

An Asterisk (*) denotes an “essential job function” for ADA purposes.

(30%) 

*. Responsible for month end close journals, balance sheet reconciliations and prelim analysis in the areas of the direct lending programs, HRSA loan programs, unrestricted investment accounts and miscellaneous SMU student programs.  Assist Senior Accountant with any misc. journal preparation or uploads into the general ledger system.

(25%) 

*Prepare, process or record direct lending and alternative loan programs data. Executes all student return of funds under strict reporting guidelines, ensuring all done in a timely matter so that no audit findings occur for SMU.

(15%) 

*Assist Senior Accountant with interaction between Financial Services, Student Accounting and Financial Aide offices regarding all student related funding and programs so that regulatory requirements are being met and accounting for such programs is accurate.

(15%) 

*Compile data and assurance that proper accounting methods are being performed with government agencies reporting in regards to the HRSA loan programs. Assist the Audit and Reporting Specialist with preparation of annual report requirements under the HRSA regulatory reporting guidelines.

(10%) 

*Compile data, prepare work paper and audit schedules for both internal and external audits under the direction of the Audit and Reporting Specialist.

(5%) 

Perform other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities:

• Proficient in both personal and mainframe computers
• Knowledge of and experience with Windows environment, Microsoft Office
• Thorough knowledge of fundamental accounting principles, theories and terminologies. Interpret and analysis the balance sheet and income statement. Perform accounting tasks with accuracy and competence.
• Ability to work with confidential data such as payroll information, financial aid personal information, government reports, etc
• Ability to read and understand complex Federal and State regulations and guidelines as well as accounting standards related to the direct lending and HRSA programs.
• Ability to perform highly complex mathematical and statistical techniques such as factor analysis, modeling and probability determinations. Logical thinking to solve problems; several abstract and concrete variables for systems development
• Ability to work independently while participating as a team player
• Ability to organize and complete large-scale projects independently 
• Ability to interface will with large and diverse user groups
• Demonstrate organizing, reconciling and analyzing abilities
• Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, public and student population

Education and/or Experience:

• Baccalaureate degree from four-year college in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience, preferably in a nonprofit setting with a higher education college or university.

Physical Requirements: 

• Basically sedentary deskwork
• Perform data entry and calculator use
• Ability to receive detailed information through communication

The University has an institution-wide commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We strive to build a welcoming and supportive campus environment, and acknowledge that diversity is an educational imperative to achieve excellence.