"Accountant I"

Job Summary

The entry level professional accountant position has primary responsibility for the generation of routine financial reports and statements and/or analysis requiring understanding and interpretation in the application of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the variety of work assignments. Under the direction of an experienced accountant, incumbents are given work assignments that are designed to expand practical experience and develop professional judgment in the application of accounting principles. This Accountant I position focuses primarily, but not exclusively, on non-student full-cycle Accounts Receivable, processing journal entries, and petty cash management.

Key Responsibilities

• Examine financial documents for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with established policies and procedures and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Reconcile reports and financial data with financial statements on file
• Correct and reconcile account balances to external data
• Prepare journal entries
• Research and resolve problems associated with incorrect entries, deviations from established procedures, and other inconsistencies with accounting principles
• Prepare routine financial reports and statements (i.e. GAAP Journal Entries, WDesk Footnotes, PBCs required by the CO, SCO, or external auditors)
• Provide input to the documentation and maintenance of business processes, standards and procedures
• Participate in cross-training to back-fill other Accountant I positions as needed
• May be responsible for providing training, guidance, and assistance to other employees and may provide work direction for other professional and/or technical staff
• Perform other duties that may be assigned from time to time

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• General knowledge of GAAP and general understanding of internal control methods
• Knowledge of office methods and procedures, proficiency with current word processing and spreadsheet software programs, web browsers, query tools, integrated financial systems and/or other types of records management systems
• Ability to interpret and follow instructions and policy guidelines
• Ability to analyze and interpret accounting data to draw conclusions and prepare clear, accurate financial statements and reports
• Utilize problem-solving techniques
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
• Communicate effectively with others inside and outside the unit, including conveying technical information to non-accountants
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple demands, meet deadlines, and provide punctual customer service
• Ability to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner

Required Qualifications

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree with a major in accounting, business administration, finance or a closely related field or a combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; or CPA
• Experience using Oracle PeopleSoft ERP (or similar)
• Experience with CSU or higher education
• Governmental accounting experience

Compensation

Classification: Accountant I
Anticipated Hiring Range: $4,453/month - $5,042/month
CSU Salary Range: $4,453/month - $8,343/month
San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: August 2, 2025 through August 17, 2025. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Contact Information

University Personnel
jobs@sjsu.edu
408-924-2252