Capital Construction Accountant

James Madison University; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

James Madison University is seeking a Capital Construction Accountant to join the Finance Department’s Associate Controller - Reporting team. The role analyzes capital construction and non-capital project financials, reconciles ledgers, and ensures accurate coding of invoices and expenditures.

You will prepare work papers, monitor bond proceeds, and support annual reports and compliance reviews, with emphasis on capital asset accounting and reliable financial reporting.

Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of accounting concepts, principles and application, especially capital asset accounting.
• Strong Excel and database skills (PeopleSoft/Oracle) and Word processing abilities.
• Ability to work independently with good problem-solving and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes financial transactions for capital construction and non-capital facilities management projects.
• Verifies that capital project budgets, allotments and cash are sufficient to process expenditures.
• Ensures that capital project invoices are coded and charged appropriately.
• Reconciles PeopleSoft general ledger to the state accounting system (Cardinal).
• Researches, compiles and prepares financial statement work papers and schedules.
• Monitors bond proceeds spending to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.

Skills

Accounting principles

Capital asset accounting

Excel

PeopleSoft/Oracle

Communication

Organization

Tools

PeopleSoft

Oracle

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Working Title: Capital Construction Accountant

State Role Title:Financial Services Specialist II

Position Type:Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Exempt: Not Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Finance

Department: 100641 - Associate Controller - Reporting

Pay Band:5

Pay Rate:Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $60,000-$62,446

Is this a JMU only position?No

Is this a grant-funded position?No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position?No

Beginning Review Date:8/21/2026

About JMU

At James Madison University (JMU), we're more than just a publicly funded institution - we're a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU?

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change - and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information

To support James Madison University and the Finance Department objectives of efficient use of resources through prudent fiscal stewardship. Specifically, to support the activities of Capital, Debt and Indirect Cost Accounting. This includes the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports, schedules, working papers and journal entries, ensuring accuracy and integrity of data in capital construction, lease and indirect cost accounting while interpreting and complying with university and state policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyzes financial transactions for capital construction and non-capital Facilities Management projects.
• Verifies that capital project budgets, allotments and cash are sufficient to process expenditures.
• Ensures that capital project invoices are coded and charged appropriately.
• Reconciles PeopleSoft general ledger to the state accounting system (Cardinal).
• Researches, compiles and prepares financial statement work papers and schedules.
• Manages and reconciles cash balances for bond proceeds and other funding sources.
• Prepares bond reimbursement requisitions for submission to appropriate entities.
• Monitors loans to capital projects.
• Monitors bond proceeds spending to ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
• Performs accounting activities and maintain schedules related to capital leases.
• Prepares operating lease spreadsheets/databases for real estate leases to ensure data is properly classified, recorded and disclosed.
• Perform financial analysis for preparation of the Federal and State Auxiliary Indirect Cost Proposals.
• Assist with preparation of annual reports including IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), NSF (National Science Foundation) survey and SCHEV (State Council of Higher Education for Virginia) research expenses.
• Conducts monthly departmental compliance reviews by performing risk assessments, maintaining internal control documentation and implementing corrective action plans to ensure compliance.
• Performs monthly JMU Foundation and local department billings.
• Processes JMU Foundation deposits monthly.

Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of accounting concepts, principles and application, specifically capital asset accounting.
• Advanced skills in using computer applications including, spreadsheet (like Microsoft Excel), database (like People Soft or Oracle) and word processing (like Microsoft Word) applications.
• Ability to work independently with excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, both internal and external.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to be able to communicate with students, faculty and staff regarding accounting policies.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.

Additional Posting Information

Conditions of Employment

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I‑9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with the mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: [phone].

Reasonable Accommodation

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at [phone] or [e-mail]. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.