Accountant - Business and Finance

Grand Valley State University; United States; On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision and dental care

Life insurance

Retirement contributions

Tuition waiver

Job summary

Grand Valley State University in the United States seeks a grants accounting specialist to manage post-award activities for assigned grants, from award setup through closeout, ensuring compliant financial reporting.

Responsibilities include monitoring expenditures, preparing reports, invoicing and collections in Workday, maintaining reconciliations, and supporting audits while collaborating with PIs and the Office of Sponsored Programs.

Job description

This position performs day-to-day accounting functions related to grants and other assigned accounting areas. The position is responsible for managing multiple grant awards throughout the post-award lifecycle, including financial reporting, billing, receivables, reconciliations, compliance, and award closeout. The position works closely with Principal Investigators (PIs), the Office of Sponsored Programs, and other University departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with applicable requirements and University policies.

Salary and Benefits:

$50,000-$60,000; commensurate with experience

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

Primary Duties:

• Manage post-award accounting activities for assigned grants and contracts, from award setup through final closeout.
• Monitor grant expenditures, budgets, and financial activity to ensure compliance with award terms, applicable regulations, and University policies.
• Provide financial support to Principal Investigators (PIs), including preparing project financial reports, reviewing budgets, monitoring available funding, and responding to financial and compliance questions.
• Manage grant receivables and Workday billing schedules, including preparing invoices, monitoring outstanding balances, and following up on collections.
• Prepare and record related journal entries and ensure transactions are accurately recorded in the appropriate accounting periods.
• Prepare and maintain account reconciliations and supporting workpapers.
• Perform subrecipient monitoring in accordance with Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), Single Audit requirements, and University policies.
• Prepare financial reports and supporting documentation for audits and other reporting requirements.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies and assist with process improvements related to grant accounting and other assigned accounting functions.
• Perform other duties as required or assigned by leadership.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a closely related field.
• Minimum of three years of related experience in accounting, accounts receivable, or sponsored awards administration.
• Knowledge of general accounting principles and practices, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with faculty, staff, and other University stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree with a major in Accounting.
• Minimum of three years of experience specifically in post-award grant accounting.
• Experience with Workday financial systems.
• Knowledge of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), grant compliance, and Single Audit requirements.

Working Conditions:

Normal office environment. Some travel may be required.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future.

Application Deadline:

Application closes November 20, 2026. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/.

Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities. At Grand Valley State University, we empower learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. The university enriches society through excellent teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service. The GVSU community is collaborative, inclusive, self-aware, goal- and growth-oriented. We value connection with fellow Lakers, both student and professional colleagues, and strive to challenge our existing state with innovative strategies. We are dedicated to student success, and the well-being of our community as a whole. Read more about our Reach Higher 2025 strategic plan and process.

TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).