Financial Analyst I

Position Summary

The College of Nursing at Michigan State University is seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Senior Accountant / Financial Analyst to support financial operations, reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic analysis across the organization. This role combines advanced accounting responsibilities with financial planning and analysis functions to provide accurate financial reporting, operational insights, and data-driven recommendations for leadership decision-making.

The ideal candidate will possess strong accounting knowledge, financial modeling capabilities, and experience working collaboratively with operational leaders, auditors, and external stakeholders. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Prepare, review, and deliver monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports
• Manage general ledger activities, journal entries, account reconciliations, and close processes
• Monitor and reconcile general, designated, restricted, grant, and plant accounts to ensure compliance and accuracy
• Prepare and submit invoices, deposits, transfers, and journal entries
• Develop financial forecasts, budgets, and variance analyses
• Prepare managerial and operational reports with timely actionable recommendations
• Calculate salary and operational costs for grant proposals and departmental planning
• Reconcile grant and research accounts and ensure compliance with funding requirements
• Provide financial guidance and interpretation of policies, procedures, and financial data to leadership and staff
• Serve as a liaison between departments, finance teams, auditors, and external agencies

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year degree program in accounting or finance with relevant course work in business administration; six months to one year of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in accounting, auditing or financial analysis; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• CPA, CMA, or MBA preferred
• 5+ years of progressively responsible accounting and/or financial analysis experience
• Strong understanding of GAAP, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems and financial reporting tools
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with grants, restricted funds, or higher education/government accounting
• Pre- and post-award experience
• Knowledge of cost accounting and audit procedures
• Experience developing dashboards and management reports
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments
• Experience with financial system implementation or process improvement initiatives