Accountant I

Michigan State University College of Engineering; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University College of Engineering is seeking an Accountant responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and preparing financial reports in East Lansing, Michigan. The role involves reconciling accounts, supporting budgeting activities, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards.

The ideal candidate will have a four-year degree in accounting and 1-3 years of relevant experience. Strong knowledge of general ledger accounting and financial analysis is required. The university promotes an inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• One to three years of related work experience in financial statement preparation.
• Experience with general ledger accounting and budgeting.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain financial records and general ledger accounts.
• Perform monthly account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and organizational policies.

Skills

General ledger accounting

Financial statement preparation

Account reconciliation

Budgeting and financial analysis

Internal controls and compliance

Time management and organization

Written and verbal communication

Critical thinking and problem-solving

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Strong customer service orientation

Education

Four-year college degree program in accounting

Job description

Summary The accountant is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, reconciling accounts, and ensuring compliance with accounting principles, organizational policies, and regulatory requirements. This position supports the organization's financial operations through the timely processing and analysis of financial transactions, assisting with budgeting activities, and contributing to month‑end and year‑end closing processes. The accountant works collaboratively with department leaders and other stakeholders to ensure financial integrity and support sound business decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain accurate financial records and general ledger accounts.
• Perform monthly account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with month‑end and year‑end closing activities.
• Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation.
• Perform accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash transaction duties as assigned.
• Provide information to others on university and departmental operational and accounting procedures and policies.
• Generate and analyze financial reports for management review.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), organizational policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audit activities by providing requested documentation and analysis.
• Review financial transactions for accuracy and completeness.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and internal controls.
• Provide financial information and support to management and operational departments.
• Process and analyze healthcare‑related financial transactions.
• Support reimbursement, revenue cycle, and provider compensation reporting.
• Assist with grant accounting and compliance requirements.
• Monitor departmental budgets and expenditures.
• Prepare financial analyses to support operational and strategic decision‑making within the healthcare environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four‑year college degree program in accounting; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in financial statement and report preparation, general ledger accounting and budgeting; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• General ledger accounting
• Financial statement preparation
• Account reconciliation
• Budgeting and financial analysis
• Internal controls and compliance
• Time management and organization
• Written and verbal communication
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong customer service orientation

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.