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:
- 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.
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.
Handles all information with tact and discretion and recognizes
the confidential nature of university business.
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.
