Research Grant Accountant, Dept. of Chemistry (Fin Pro 3)

University of Minnesota - Minneapolis, MN

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Minneapolis, MN

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Finance Professional 3 position in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Minnesota is responsible for managing finances related to both sponsored and non-sponsored projects. This role involves interpreting grant and contract policies, developing financial projections, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty and staff, providing expert guidance on university accounting and financial reporting systems, while also supporting the department's mission of education, research, and outreach.

Responsibilities

• Manage finances for non-sponsored and sponsored projects, including accounting, reconciliations, auditing, and approving expenditures and payroll transactions.
• Provide comprehensive financial reports, projections, and budgets for projects and faculty at regular intervals.
• Interpret and analyze financial reports, identifying opportunities and risks, and work with stakeholders to implement solutions.
• Meet regularly with faculty and staff to review financial status and provide guidance.
• Prepare and review various reports for internal departments and external agencies, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
• Develop sponsored project budgets in collaboration with faculty and staff, and prepare proposal routing forms for submission.
• Coordinate effort certification processes, ensuring compliance with salary cap issues and timely processing of effort statements.
• Attend relevant meetings and training opportunities, and manage internal invoicing programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree plus at least 4 years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience totaling eight years.
• Experience managing finances, including complex reporting, forecasting, analysis, and budgeting.
• Proficiency in computerized accounting and payroll systems, as well as word processing and spreadsheet applications like MS Word and MS Excel.
• Client or customer service experience.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Approver status or ability to pass the University of Minnesota Certified Approver exam within 6-12 months of hire.
• Accounting experience in a higher education institution, with knowledge of financial management and auditing policies.
• Significant experience with project and fund accounting in a higher education setting.
• Ability to negotiate, instruct, or persuade others effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Work from home up to three days per week, with the possibility of 100% remote work subject to approval.
• Opportunities for professional growth and knowledge acquisition.