Accounting Assistant V

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts & Sciences; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Tuition assistance

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Harvard University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences is seeking an Accounts Payable Specialist to join the Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP). You will manage high‑volume invoice processing, review for accuracy, and ensure timely payments across departments while upholding university policies.

The role requires strong attention to detail, proficiency with Excel and SharePoint, and the ability to work independently in a hybrid on‑campus/remote setting.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of relevant work experience. Education beyond high school may count toward experience.
• College background in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• 2+ years’ experience in accounts payable roles, preferably in a high-volume environment.

Responsibilities

• Process high-volume invoices using University AP systems accurately and efficiently.
• Review invoices for accuracy, completeness, and proper authorization.
• Process payments to vendors on time and reconcile vendor statements.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to resolve discrepancies and address vendor inquiries.

Skills

Accounts payable

Excel

SharePoint

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

Finance systems

AP software

Job description

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community thatadvances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways,inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills andexpertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcomingenvironment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart ofHarvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduateprogram (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all ofHarvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin GraduateSchool of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athleticsand the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academicdepartments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a communityunparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest rangeof liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeksto foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and sharedcommitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from allmembers of our community and prepares the next generation ofleaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary

The Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP) providescomplete and integrated planning and design services, constructionmanagement, and building renewal, maintenance, and operationsmanagement to maintain the physical resources of the FAS campus,FAS facilities portfolio includes 250+buildings, approximately 10Msq. ft.

Manage complex invoice processing system including, preparing, andprocessing invoices from OPRP staff including area managers,building managers, capital project managers, planners, andadministrative coordinators through an internal payment system.Process invoices for credit card and purchase orders, processedthrough separate systems.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Process high-volume invoices using variousUniversity/Department AP systems accurately and efficiently,ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures.


• Review invoices for accuracy, completeness, and properauthorization.


• Process payments to vendors on time and reconcile vendorstatements.


• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to resolve discrepanciesand address vendor inquiries on time.


• Maintain correct and up-to-date accounts payable records anddocumentation.


• Investigate and resolve problems as they concern invoiceprocesses, lost checks, duplicate payments, vendor paymentinquiries.


• Adhere to accounting principles and standards to ensurecompliance with regulations.


• Perform ad hoc accounting tasks related to AP and invoiceprocessing.


• Maintain office supplies, routine clerical tasks asneeded.


• Service as back-up for front office coverage.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office setting;Hybrid schedule: four (4) days on campus (1 day WFH) after 90-dayOrientation & Review and fully up and running.

Physical Requirements

Sitting and using near vision forreading and computer work for extended periods of time.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Three or more years of relevant work experience. Educationbeyond high school may count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• College background in Accounting, Finance, or a related fieldpreferred.


• 2+ years’ experience in accounts payable roles, preferably in ahigh-volume environment preferred.


• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel &SharePoint.


• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.


• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision,multi-task, and be adaptable.


• Strong professional judgment, attention to detail, and abilityto handle complex and confidential information withdiscretion.


• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keenattention to detail.


• Strong communication, interpersonal skills, and customerservice skills with the ability to collaborate effectively acrossdepartments.


• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tightdeadlines.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week


• Compensation Range/Rate: The salary will be determinedbased on the position and the candidate’s relevant experience.


• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University isunable to provide visa sponsorship for this position


• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity


• Other Information: All formal offers will be made by FASHuman Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders thatsome of the duties and responsibilities can be effectivelyperformed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and locationwill be set by the department at its discretion and based uponoperational needs. When not working at a Harvard orHarvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions mustwork in a Harvard registered state in compliance with theUniversity’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts .Additional details will be discussed during the interview process.Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location.Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements priorto employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental andfinancial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Ourbenefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave


• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage startingon day one


• Retirement plans with university contributions


• Wellbeing and mental health resources


• Support for families and caregivers


• Professional development opportunities including tuitionassistance and reimbursement


• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & WellbeingPage .

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talentfrom all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensureeveryone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our communityadvance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on thebasis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexualorientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability,or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in theuniversity's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help allcommunity members participate fully in work and campus life freefrom harassment and discrimination.