Senior Accountant - Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
About the Job
67215BRAuto req ID:67215BRJob Code:F0056P Accountant II Department Office Location:USA - MA - Cambridge Business Title:Senior AccountantSalary Grade (https://hr.harvard.edu/salary-ranges#ranges) :056Time Status:Full-time Union:00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary Additional Qualifications and Skills:
Additional Qualifications:
+ Degree in Accounting or Finance preferred.
+ Business experience in accounting, finance or related field preferred
+ Possess strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills with keen attention to detail, discretion, and independent judgement
+ Capable of working independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision
+ Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and handle multiple time-sensitive functions and changing assignments
+ Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel, and able to learn and utilize various accounting systems, with experience in financial systems and data query tools: Oracle Financial and IBM Maximo preferred
+ Demonstrates a working knowledge of accounting principles
Additional Information:
Campus Services:
Campus Services provides essential services to the Harvard community. The 14 Campus Services departments have approximately 1,800 active employees (70% of staff are represented by eight unions) and a combined annual budget of more than $700 million. These departments provide stewardship, strategic support and client/customer services to the Harvard community in buildings and facilities, graduate housing, capital projects, sustainability, real estate, parking, transportation and commuter support, engineering and utilities, mail, printing and ID card support, dining, hospitality and events management, publishing administration, health and safety, and international support. 95% of these services are offered under market-based, competitive cost structures.
About Campus Services Finance and Administration
The mission of Campus Services Finance and Administration (CSFA) is to be an efficient and effective provider of accounting, financial analysis, budgeting and planning, procurement, taxes and financial administrative support services to Campus Services business units and the customers they serve and to support the University’s primary mission of teaching and research. The organization is comprised of 3 main functions: Controller, Financial Planning and Analysis, and Procurement.
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Department:Campus Services Finance and AdministrationPre-Employment Screening:Education, Employment, IdentitySchedule:Monday - Friday: Flexible (general = 8am-5pm)Job Function:Finance School/Unit:Campus Services EEO Statement:We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.Basic Qualifications:
+ Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or equivalent work experience required
+ Minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience
Position Description:
As a vital member of the CSFA team, the Senior Accountant reports to the Senior Accounting Manager and contributes significantly to the execution of financial and accounting operations within the CS Operating Unit. This role is primarily responsible for supporting accounting functions, implementing efficient processes, and maintaining internal control. The Senior Accountant collaborates with a team of professionals, handling day-to-day responsibilities such as CS general ledger accounting, capital accounting, billing and accounts receivable, as well as reconciliation. The Senior Accountant plays an essential role in upholding internal controls and ensuring adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), as well as University and CS-specific accounting and financial policies, alongside applicable federal and state regulations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
+ Perform monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial closings independently, applying critical thinking and professional skepticism to ensure accuracy and meet deadlines.
+ Prepare, approve, and review journal entries in accordance with Campus Services and University policies and key controls ensuring that the reperformance standard is met.
+ Independently perform complex accounting reconciliations and analysis ensuring appropriate documentation, as well as identifying and resolving variances.
+ Independently identify and resolve accounting issues, collaborating closely with colleagues within Campus Services and across the university as warranted.
+ Serve as an expert accounting resource for CSFA colleagues and Campus Services Business Units, providing guidance on accounting policies, procedures, and financial systems, writing job aids when warranted.
+ Propose and implement improvements in accounting operations and financial reporting in collaboration with CSFA colleagues, CS Business Units and leadership while maintaining compliance with policies and laws and promoting best practices.
+ Leverage technology for process enhancements, develop expertise in financial systems, and analyze data effectively.
+ Participate in User Acceptance Testing and system implementations, collaborating with Business Units, CS HUIT, and other teams to resolve issues and optimize processes
+ Actively contribute to a process improvement subcommittee.
+ Prepare ad-hoc reports for management and internal customers.
+ Provide timely, accurate, and professional customer service.
+ Serve as backup for critical activities and cross-train with other team members, as needed.
+ Other duties as assigned.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging:Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.Benefits:We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
+ Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
+ Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
+ Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
+ Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
+ Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
+ Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
+ Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
+ Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
+ Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Work Format:Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote) LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only):#LI-JD3Work Format Details:This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Additional Qualifications:
+ Degree in Accounting or Finance preferred.
+ Business experience in accounting, finance or related field preferred
+ Possess strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills with keen attention to detail, discretion, and independent judgement
+ Capable of working independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision
+ Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and handle multiple time-sensitive functions and changing assignments
+ Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel, and able to learn and utilize various accounting systems, with experience in financial systems and data query tools: Oracle Financial and IBM Maximo preferred
+ Demonstrates a working knowledge of accounting principles
Additional Information:
Campus Services:
Campus Services provides essential services to the Harvard community. The 14 Campus Services departments have approximately 1,800 active employees (70% of staff are represented by eight unions) and a combined annual budget of more than $700 million. These departments provide stewardship, strategic support and client/customer services to the Harvard community in buildings and facilities, graduate housing, capital projects, sustainability, real estate, parking, transportation and commuter support, engineering and utilities, mail, printing and ID card support, dining, hospitality and events management, publishing administration, health and safety, and international support. 95% of these services are offered under market-based, competitive cost structures.
About Campus Services Finance and Administration
The mission of Campus Services Finance and Administration (CSFA) is to be an efficient and effective provider of accounting, financial analysis, budgeting and planning, procurement, taxes and financial administrative support services to Campus Services business units and the customers they serve and to support the University’s primary mission of teaching and research. The organization is comprised of 3 main functions: Controller, Financial Planning and Analysis, and Procurement.
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Department:Campus Services Finance and AdministrationPre-Employment Screening:Education, Employment, IdentitySchedule:Monday - Friday: Flexible (general = 8am-5pm)Job Function:Finance School/Unit:Campus Services EEO Statement:We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.Basic Qualifications:
+ Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or equivalent work experience required
+ Minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience
Position Description:
As a vital member of the CSFA team, the Senior Accountant reports to the Senior Accounting Manager and contributes significantly to the execution of financial and accounting operations within the CS Operating Unit. This role is primarily responsible for supporting accounting functions, implementing efficient processes, and maintaining internal control. The Senior Accountant collaborates with a team of professionals, handling day-to-day responsibilities such as CS general ledger accounting, capital accounting, billing and accounts receivable, as well as reconciliation. The Senior Accountant plays an essential role in upholding internal controls and ensuring adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), as well as University and CS-specific accounting and financial policies, alongside applicable federal and state regulations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
+ Perform monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial closings independently, applying critical thinking and professional skepticism to ensure accuracy and meet deadlines.
+ Prepare, approve, and review journal entries in accordance with Campus Services and University policies and key controls ensuring that the reperformance standard is met.
+ Independently perform complex accounting reconciliations and analysis ensuring appropriate documentation, as well as identifying and resolving variances.
+ Independently identify and resolve accounting issues, collaborating closely with colleagues within Campus Services and across the university as warranted.
+ Serve as an expert accounting resource for CSFA colleagues and Campus Services Business Units, providing guidance on accounting policies, procedures, and financial systems, writing job aids when warranted.
+ Propose and implement improvements in accounting operations and financial reporting in collaboration with CSFA colleagues, CS Business Units and leadership while maintaining compliance with policies and laws and promoting best practices.
+ Leverage technology for process enhancements, develop expertise in financial systems, and analyze data effectively.
+ Participate in User Acceptance Testing and system implementations, collaborating with Business Units, CS HUIT, and other teams to resolve issues and optimize processes
+ Actively contribute to a process improvement subcommittee.
+ Prepare ad-hoc reports for management and internal customers.
+ Provide timely, accurate, and professional customer service.
+ Serve as backup for critical activities and cross-train with other team members, as needed.
+ Other duties as assigned.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging:Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.Benefits:We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
+ Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
+ Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
+ Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
+ Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
+ Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
+ Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
+ Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
+ Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
+ Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Work Format:Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote) LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only):#LI-JD3Work Format Details:This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Source : Harvard University
