Assistant Controller

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology seeks an Assistant Controller to help oversee the accounting functions of the University. This person is primarily responsible for assisting in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of accounting operations at Harrisburg University, including budgeting, accounting, reporting, accounts payable, student financial services and fiduciary accounting. In addition, they will provide technical expertise and guidance to University administrators concerning budget, accounting and financial matters. The Assistant Controller ensures the University accounting practices and procedures conform to applicable accounting principles and guidelines and ensures compliance with state and federal regulations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (duties may be assigned and other duties may vary):

• Oversee financial reporting, forecasting and financial internal control operations of the University to safeguard assets; ensure internal accounting principles and practices are in place to support the University's financial and strategic objectives

• Assist in the development and implementation of policies, procedures and practices to ensure compliance with financial rules and regulations in accordance with University policies; interpret policies and procedures to faculty, staff, students and external vendors

• Maintain a record of all cash flow analyses and supervise the maintenance of records of expenditures and revenue for all University funds; ensure funds from various grants and funding agencies are received and managed properly

• Assist the CFO with annual budgeting process, planning and forecasting; communicate planning to team leaders and assist them with annual budget requests

• Design and administer budgetary control systems, procedures and transactions

• Create monthly reports for senior staff and team leaders; assist with developing budget control measures and recommending budget adjustments and strategies for team leaders

• Handle unanticipated discretionary matters in a judicious and confidential manner in the absence of the CFO

• Serve as a liaison between the financial services team, employees and external constituents

• Assess software programs, systems and databases for efficiency and promote user proficiency

• Research, investigate, and use independent judgment to resolve problems related to incomplete or incorrect financial data; resolve discrepancies, obtain required authorizations and assure accurate recording of financial transactions

• Compile data, prepare, obtain approval, and submit federal and state financial, statistical, and other regulatory compliance reports for the CFO review and submission

• Perform monthly and fiscal year-end closing activities; prepare all required and final expenditure reports for grants and special accounts; analyze financial data and prepare financial reports as needed

• Prepare account reconciliations associated with the annual audit

• Assist in the audit of the 403b retirement plan

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or a related field and a minimum of five years of supervisory or management level accounting in higher education, including application of generally accepted accounting principles and tax laws

• MBA or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with an active license to practice in PA preferred

• Experience or knowledge of FASB; basic knowledge of fully integrated systems; working knowledge of the business procedures and policies of state agencies; tax laws and reporting

• Experience working with managing grant funds, donations, endowments, and/or third-party fiscal management within public accounting and/or higher education preferred

• Strong work ethic and self-motivation; ability to set goals and execute business development activities with confidence

• High level of energy, flexibility, initiative, and creativity

• Organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills and the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently with frequent interruptions

• Excellent writing, presentation and interpersonal communication skills and demonstrated ability to develop strong, collaborative relationships with colleagues, students, and employers

• Proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Office computer systems and accounting-specific software; ability to run reports and analyze data

ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY

Harrisburg University offers applied science and technology education for students who want a degree and a dedicated pathway to a career. Its focus is to educate career-minded individuals in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM careers), giving them the tools to succeed, while helping to shape their communities, locally and beyond. Our goal is to help stimulate economic growth in our region by establishing a STEM educated workforce - a necessary resource in today's economy.

MISSION

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is an independent educational institution offering innovative academic and research programs in science and technology that respond to local and global needs. The institution fosters a diverse community of learners, provides access and support to students who want to pursue a career in science and technology, and supports business creation and economic development.