Staff Accountant

Position Purpose:

The Staff Accountant supports learning by providing comprehensive accounting, financial reporting, and analytical support for the Business Office. As a versatile member of the Business Office team, this position performs a wide range of accounting responsibilities while supporting the Aurora University's financial operations, reporting, compliance, and internal control environment. The Staff Accountant demonstrates a willingness to learn all aspects of Aurora University accounting operations, effectively cross-trains across functional areas, and adapts to changing priorities to ensure continuity of Business Office services. The Staff Accountant is expected to develop proficiency across multiple accounting functions and serve as a flexible Business Office resource capable of supporting changing operational needs. Through collaboration and continuous learning, this position contributes to accurate financial reporting, operational excellence, and exceptional service to the Aurora University community.

Core Competencies:

1. Represents Aurora University in the most positive manner with prospective, former and current students, clients, suppliers and the community we serve. Interacts effectively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students and vendors, and uses operating practices of the department and Aurora University.
2. Upholds the Mission Statement: At Aurora University, our singular goal is to empower students to achieve lasting personal and professional success. We do this by being an inclusive community dedicated to the transformative power of learning. As a teaching-centered institution, we encourage undergraduate and graduate students to discover what it takes to build meaningful and purposeful lives.
3. Handles all information with tact and discretion and recognizes the confidential nature of university business.
4. Supports learning through performance of essential job functions and performing other duties and functions as necessary or as assigned, including voluntary participation in university committees, activities and events.

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform general accounting functions supporting the Aurora University's financial operations, including journal entries, account reconciliations, financial analysis, and month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Maintain responsibility for assigned general ledger accounts and accounting processes, ensuring transactions are accurately recorded, reconciled, and supported in accordance with Aurora University policies and generally accepted accounting principles.
• Develop a broad understanding of Aurora University business operations and accounting workflows, providing accounting support across multiple functional areas including cash management, payroll, accounts payable, student accounts, financial aid, grants, fixed assets, treasury, and other assigned areas as business needs require.
• Serve as a backup for payroll processing and maintain a working knowledge of payroll procedures, tax reporting, and related compliance requirements.
• Assist with preparation of financial reports, account analyses, regulatory filings, and documentation supporting internal and external audits.
• Maintain strong internal controls through accurate documentation, reconciliations, adherence to Aurora University policies, and compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues throughout the Aurora University to resolve accounting issues, improve business processes, and provide responsive, professional customer service to faculty, staff, students, and external partners.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance accounting processes, increase efficiency, strengthen internal controls, and improve service to the Aurora University community.
• Demonstrate flexibility by learning new accounting functions, cross-training with other Business Office staff, and providing coverage during peak workload periods, vacations, or staff transitions.
• Contribute to a culture of excellence through professionalism, accountability, teamwork, continuous learning, and a commitment to the Aurora University's mission and values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

Experience:

• One to three years of progressively responsible accounting experience preferred. Equivalent combination of education, internships, and relevant experience will be considered.

Preferred:

• CPA or CPA candidate.
• Experience in higher education or nonprofit accounting.
• Experience with Colleague ERP.

Knowledge:

• Working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Understanding of general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and strong internal controls.

Skills:

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet established deadlines.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as a collaborative team member.
• Commitment to providing outstanding customer service to internal and external constituents.
• Demonstrated willingness to learn new accounting functions and support cross-functional Business Office operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and other Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to move about campus and other locations.
• Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.