Research Grant Accountant (FP2) in Chemistry (# 365444)

University of Minnesota

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote

5,001-10,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Finance Professional 2 position at the University of Minnesota's Department of Chemistry is a full-time role focused on managing finances for both sponsored and non-sponsored projects. The successful candidate will support the department's mission of education, research, and outreach by overseeing a portfolio of departmental funds, including seminars and scholarships. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to innovative financial processes. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within a supportive finance team.

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, faculty, and the department.
• Meet regularly with faculty and staff to review financial status and provide guidance.
• Prepare and analyze reports for internal departments and external agencies, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
• Develop sponsored project budgets in collaboration with faculty and staff, and complete submission requirements.
• Coordinate effort certification processes and monitor effort commitments for faculty.
• Attend relevant meetings and training opportunities, and manage internal invoicing programs.

Requirements

• BA/BS plus at least 2 years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal 6 years.
• Experience managing finances, including reporting, forecasting, analysis, and budgeting.
• Experience with computerized accounting and payroll systems.
• Client or customer service experience.
• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Approver status or ability to obtain it within 6-12 months of hire.
• Accounting experience in a higher education institution.
• Significant experience with project and fund accounting in a higher education setting.
• Ability to negotiate and persuade others effectively.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with counseling sessions
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates.