Staff Accountant

The Staff Accountant performs professional accounting, financial reporting, and administrative duties that support the College's accounting, budgeting, and fiscal operations. The position exercises independent judgment and discretion in the application of accounting principles, analysis of financial data, and execution of established financial procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the College's financial records.

This is a hands-on role that requires attention to detail and a willingness to perform all aspects of the accounting process, from data entry and reconciliation to financial analysis and report preparation, ensuring projects and financial transactions are completed accurately and on schedule. The Staff Accountant collaborates with departments across the College and provides support to the Controller and the Vice President for Finance and Administration in the administration of financial services, special projects, audits, and other accounting functions as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Prepares required and assigned reports by compiling, researching and analyzing data (including any reconciliation work required).
2. Assists in the preparation and construction of the College’s internal operating budget as required by the Controller or VP of Finance and Administration.
3. Maintains the accuracy of financial data through assigning the correct budget numbers and expense codes, reviewing or approving transactions, properly recording transactions via journal entries, preparing and reviewing budget adjustments, researching and analyzing data regarding needed updates, and preparing monthly reconciliations.
4. Assists with the preparation of year-end procedures and audit workpapers.
5. Assists the Financial Aid Office by reconciling federal and state reports to the general ledger and also maintains the named scholarships listing.
6. Reconciles all trust statements to the general ledger.
7. Regularly review accounts payable edits.
8. Assists in the preparation of the College’s tax return and other reporting requirements.
9. Assists with managing College purchasing cards.
10. Assists in the establishment of system-wide policies and procedures which ensure that resources are used in the most effective and efficient manner by all departments.
11. Coordinate with Information Services to obtain various reports and information as needed for budgeting.
12. Explain accounting transactions and resolve accounting issues and discrepancies with College personnel.
13. Perform accounting research in literature and the standards to ensure proper accounting treatment.
14. Contributes to the overall success of the Business Affairs office by performing all other duties and responsibilities assigned by the Controller or VP of Finance while maintaining high levels of accuracy, customer service, professional demeanor and appropriate levels of confidentiality at all times.

EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE AND REQUIREMENTS

1. Bachelor’s degree in accounting required.
2. 1-3 years substantial work-related experience required.
3. Working knowledge of accounting, accounting standards, and regulatory accounting.
4. Non-profit and/or higher education experience a plus.
5. Outstanding written and oral communication skills.
6. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook is required.
7. In-depth understanding of relevant financial reporting requirements and ability to research and interpret new guidelines.
8. Has ability to prioritize work, operate independently, work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
9. Works well as part of a team by assisting and supporting others in department.
10. Strong ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. Prolonged periods of sitting while performing accounting, reconciliation, and data entry tasks.
2. Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, mouse, calculator, and other standard office equipment.
3. Frequent viewing of computer monitors requiring close visual acuity for reviewing financial records, spreadsheets, and reports.
4. Frequent use of hands and fingers to type, write, handle documents, and operate office equipment.
5. Occasional standing and walking throughout the office or to other campus departments to deliver documents, attend meetings, or provide customer service.
6. Frequent verbal communication and active listening when interacting with faculty, staff, vendors, students, auditors, and external agencies, both in person and by telephone or video conferencing.
7. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret detailed financial information, contracts, invoices, and reports.
8. Occasional bending, reaching, stooping, or kneeling to retrieve files or access office supplies.
9. Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling office materials, files, paper, or boxed records weighing up to 15–20 pounds.
10. Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail for extended periods while performing complex financial transactions and reconciliations.
11. Occasional travel across campus to attend meetings, training sessions, or assist with audits or departmental activities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The Staff Accountant works primarily in a professional, climate-controlled office environment within a college setting. The position involves regular use of computers and standard office equipment and requires extended periods of desk work. Work is generally performed during normal business hours, with occasional early morning, evening, or extended hours during peak periods such as month-end and year-end close, annual audits, budget preparation, fiscal year-end activities, or other critical financial deadlines.

The work environment is typically quiet to moderately busy, with frequent interaction with faculty, staff, students, vendors, auditors, and other stakeholders in person, by telephone, and through electronic communications. The position may require occasional travel between campus offices to attend meetings, deliver documents, or collaborate with other departments. The role requires maintaining confidentiality, working with minimal physical hazards, and managing multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is not routinely required for this position. In limited circumstances, PPE may be required in accordance with institutional safety procedures, public health guidance, or specific school activities or events.

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in the state. The College maintains its commitment to academic excellence through 70+ undergraduate programs and distinctive graduate programs in business administration, education, nursing, and physical therapy. Florida Southern has a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, is an award-winning national leader in engaged learning, and boasts 30 NCAA Division II National Championships. Florida Southern is ranked at #8 among the “Best Regional Universities in the South” by U.S. News & World Report in its 2022 “Best Colleges” guide and is included in The Princeton Review’s 2022 Best 387 Colleges guide and the “Fiske Guide to Colleges 2022.”