Senior Accountant

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience: Minimum qualifications include the formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, and at least three years of professional work experience in accounting or bookkeeping.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience: Five or more years of accounting or related experience, four years of experience using Microsoft Office programs, two years of experience with the Workday business process system, highly detail-oriented with good organizational skills, time-management, self-motivated, and interpersonal skills. Experience with general ledger analysis and reconciliation skills.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Financial Closing

• Prepare and record journal entries for various transactions

• Complete account reconciliations monthly

• Perform monthly balance sheet review and investigate large variances

• Research and resolve accounting discrepancies

• Assist with monthly review of invalid worktag combinations and corrections

Financial Reporting

• Assist in production of the annual year-end financial statements by performing assigned analyses, completing schedules such as footnotes, and researching problem areas

• Aid the Assistant Controller in pulling data for various financial reports

• Assist with data entry, adjustments, and review of reports, including variances

• Assist with the annual planning and budgeting process as needed

• Assist with audit schedules as needed

Departmental Support

• Record bank transfers, ad hoc bank transactions, and ad hoc payments

• Review transactions submitted by others for approval and submission in Workday

• Serve as a backup for other accounting areas as needed

• Assist with reconciling payroll/benefit supplier invoices and payments

• Support the department in trouble shooting and process improvement efforts for bank reconciliations, revenue reporting, and other critical areas as needed

Other Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Ad hoc reporting and special projects, as assigned

• Continuing professional development and training

• Perform other responsibilities as required to support the Finance function

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Technical proficiency in accounting and a working knowledge of financial accounting standards

• Ability to compile information and assist in preparation of accounting schedules and reports

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Knowledge of university fiscal systems and university policies

• The skills and ability to recognize areas of concern and initiate proper follow -up

• Ability to organize workload and prioritize duties, meet agreed-upon deadlines, and work independently with little direction at times

• Effective skills in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to use pivot tables

• Ability to learn new accounting systems and software

• Comfortable with providing guidance to others

• Manage information in a discreet and confidential manner

• Promote & display ethical standards in all financial activities

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: The Senior Accountant will report to the Assistant Controller. The position involves extensive contact with university employees at all levels. Must maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with all University departments.

List Employees Supervised: None.

Special Job Dimensions: Work is performed primarily in an office setting. Occasional travel may be required. While performing the duties of this job, employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into a computer, sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to ten (10) pounds. Normal working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Extended hours are occasionally required.

Background Check Requirements. Financial and Criminal Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.