Accounting Assistant V

Harvard University; Massachusetts; Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Tuition assistance

Wellbeing resources

Commuter benefits

Parental leave

Job summary

Harvard University’s Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP) seeks an experienced accounts payable professional to manage high-volume invoice processing, supplier payments, and documentation for the FAS facilities portfolio.

The position features a hybrid work arrangement (4 days on campus, 1 day remote after orientation), 35 hours per week, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and professional development.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of relevant work experience.
• Education beyond high school may count toward experience.
• College background in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process high-volume invoices using University/AP systems accurately.
• Review invoices for accuracy, completeness, and proper authorization.
• Process payments to vendors and reconcile vendor statements.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to resolve discrepancies and address vendor inquiries.
• Maintain correct and up-to-date accounts payable records and documentation.
• Investigate and resolve problems related to invoice processing, lost checks, and duplicate payments.
• Adhere to accounting principles and standards to ensure compliance.
• Perform ad hoc accounting tasks related to AP and invoice processing.
• Provide back-up for front office coverage.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Analytical skills

Communication

Independent work

Problem solving

Microsoft Office

Excel

SharePoint

Education

College background in Accounting/Finance or related field

Tools

Excel

SharePoint

Accounting systems

Job description

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

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Summary:

The Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP) provides complete and integrated planning and design services, construction management, and building renewal, maintenance, and operations management to maintain the physical resources of the FAS campus, FAS facilities portfolio includes 250+buildings, approximately 10M sq. ft.

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

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Process high-volume invoices using various University/Department AP systems accurately and efficiently, ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures.
• 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 on time.
• Maintain correct and up-to-date accounts payable records and documentation.
• Investigate and resolve problems as they concern invoice processes, lost checks, duplicate payments, vendor payment inquiries.
• Adhere to accounting principles and standards to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Perform ad hoc accounting tasks related to AP and invoice processing.
• Maintain office supplies, routine clerical tasks as needed.
• 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-day Orientation & Review and fully up and running.

Physical Requirements:

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

Basic Qualifications:

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

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• College background in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• 2+ years’ experience in accounts payable roles, preferably in a high-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 ability to handle complex and confidential information with discretion.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication, interpersonal skills, and customer service skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.

Standard Hours/Schedule:

35 hours per week

Compensation Range/Rate:

The salarywill be determinedbased on the position and the candidate’s relevant experience.

Visa Sponsorship Information:

Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:

Identity

Other Information:

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

NOTE: To be considered for this position, you must include a cover letter with your application.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’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 prior to 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 and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

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

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.