"Financial Analyst"

Position Summary

The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics is seeking a dedicated professional to oversee the research programs and manage various projects for the Department during the pre- and post-award phases, and for monitoring budgets and expenditures for government, private, and other projects.

About the School: The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics is part of a prestigious institution known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence. The school offers a collaborative and innovative environment, fostering interdisciplinary research and education. With a commitment to advancing knowledge in applied physics and applied mathematics, the department is home to world-renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, providing a dynamic and supportive setting for both students and staff.

Responsibilities

• Financial Reconciliation & Reporting (30%): Reconcile all expenditures monthly and process corrections using the Journal Entry and Cost Transfer modules. Prepare and distribute monthly financial reports to PIs for sponsored and non-sponsored projects, including payroll, transaction details, and summary data to support planning and decision-making. Maintain a department-wide database of account transactions and ensure accurate documentation and filing. Assist with fiscal year-end closing, including affirming POs and reconciling departmental, discretionary, and start-up projects. Assist with the closeout of government grant projects.
• Payroll & Student Support (35%): Develop and maintain an internal salary database with real-time updates; manage reconciliation procedures to ensure proper allocation of salary charges each month. Process salary distributions for GRAs, DRAs, and TAs. Reconcile student tuition, stipends, and fees. Support the Business Manager by clearing payroll suspense and assisting PIs with budget preparation.
• Purchasing & Compliance (15%): Review and process purchase orders, P-Card transactions, travel and business expense reports, check requests, and invoices, ensuring compliance with University and government policies. Complete annual Recharge Center license applications and manage quarterly billing for SEM, Poster Printer, Microstructural Characterization, and Structural & Mechanical Property licenses.
• Collaboration & Administrative Support (20%): Serve as liaison with Facilities, Accounts Payable, Sponsored Project Administration, Sponsored Project Finance, Controller’s Office, and Purchasing. Serve as backup processor for casual personnel forms and timesheets. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as finance, accounting, business administration, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in financial management, project coordination, or a similar role.
• Proficiency in financial software and database management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience with budget preparation and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with government and private grant regulations and compliance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.
• Experience in an academic or research environment.
• Knowledge of university financial systems and policies.
• Proficiency in advanced Excel functions and data analysis tools.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP) or financial management (e.g., CPA).
• Experience with journal entry and cost transfer modules.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Experience with salary reconciliation procedures and processes.