Business Operations Paraprofessional

Inside Higher Ed; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Inside Higher Ed is seeking a finance position in Athens, GA responsible for accounting, payroll, and administrative functions. The qualified candidate must have a high school diploma and at least 2 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include processing payment requests, overseeing purchasing, and coordinating payroll. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential. Knowledge of UGA systems will be beneficial. This role offers a supportive team environment and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 2 years of related experience required.
• Knowledge of UGA systems is beneficial.
• Must have strong organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Process payment requests and ensure compliance.
• Oversee faculty and staff purchasing.
• Prepare and process payroll and leave requests.

Skills

Knowledge of UGA systems

Strong organizational and time-management skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to be a team-player

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

General office equipment

Job description

Position Summary

This position is supervised by the CAES Business Support Leader – ALEC/ADS and will interact daily with faculty, staff, and students. It is responsible for accounting, payroll, and other financial or related functions to ensure the financial integrity of the department. The incumbent will work independently and efficiently, ensuring that accounting and payroll transactions are handled in a timely and accurate manner in accordance with UGA and State of Georgia policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

• Knowledge of UGA systems
• Knowledge of general office equipment
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication as well as interpersonal skills
• Team‑player with a positive attitude

Responsibilities

Financial

• Process payment requests, AP journal vouchers, GL journals, and grant sub‑award payment requests for the department, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Oversee faculty and staff purchasing in UGAmart, ensuring expenditures follow UGA policies and procedures; proactively identify and resolve purchasing issues and communicate with vendors regarding orders.
• Monitor and maintain purchasing activity by performing periodic cleanup of outstanding POs and submitting invoices through UGAmart in a timely manner.
• Serve as departmental P‑Card holder for authorized business purchases, ensuring proper use and accurate monthly reconciliation; review transactions and ensure documentation is complete and compliant.

Human Resources

• Prepare and process payroll and leave requests for bi‑weekly and monthly employees, ensuring accuracy and timely submission to meet HR/Payroll deadlines.
• Coordinate payroll funding transactions for students and staff, ensuring proper allocation of resources.
• Process EDRs as needed, coordinating with the Business Support Leader to ensure alignment with departmental procedures.

Administrative

• Provide administrative and financial oversight for departmental conferences, seminars, and events to ensure smooth execution.
• Coordinate systems, access requests, and introduce departmental processes and procedures during onboarding for new students.
• Serve as backup to the Business Support Leader and other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Physical Demands

• Sitting/standing for long periods of time.
• Lifting 10‑15 lb boxes.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Credit and P‑Card Policy

A credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check and verification of credentials and employment history. Applicants may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for high‑risk positions.