Finance Specialist - HAPPI Business Center

University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Oklahoma; On-site; USD 47,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

The HAPPI Business Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks a Finance Specialist to provide expert financial guidance across departments, including grants administration, travel, journals, and asset management.

You will advise on funding strategies, ensure compliance with university policies, and foster collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders. The role is located on UNL's East Campus in Lincoln, NE, with potential hybrid scheduling after an initial training period.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus four years of related experience in financial management or grant administration.
• Experience with SAP or a large integrated financial system.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information per laws and policies.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build collaborative relationships.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage an assigned portfolio and advise on financial management, funding strategies, compliance across funding sources.
• Support sponsored research through post-award grant financial management and administration.
• Provide consultative guidance on university financial policies, sponsored programs, and business processes.
• Review and coordinate complex financial activities including travel, contracts, journal entries, accounts receivable, capital assets, and other financial transactions.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Confidentiality

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree + 4 years related experience

Tools

SAP

Excel

Office Suite

Job description

The HAPPI Business Center is a collaborative team providing specialized business services that advance the teaching, research, and extension missions of our partner units.

As a Finance Specialist, you will serve as a trusted resource to departments, providing expert guidance and support across a broad range of financial functions.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing an assigned portfolio, advising on financial management, funding strategies, and compliance across a variety of funding sources which may include state accounts, grants, service centers, and revolving accounts.
• Supporting sponsored research through post-award grant financial management and administration.
• Providing consultative guidance on university financial policies, sponsored programs, and business processes, helping departments navigate complex issues and identify practical, compliant solutions.
• Reviewing and coordinating complex financial activities, including travel, contracts, journal entries, accounts receivable, capital assets, and other financial transactions.

We seek a collaborative, service-oriented professional with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The successful candidate builds trusted relationships, communicates effectively with diverse stakeholders, and exercises sound judgment to make and communicate decisions that support responsible stewardship, compliance, and exceptional service.

This position is located on UNL's East Campus in Lincoln, NE.

Following an initial training period of up to six months, this position may be eligible for a hybrid work schedule, with a minimum of 3 days per week worked on site. Hybrid arrangements are subject to supervisor approval and are determined based on operational needs.

Note: Sponsorship will not be offered for this position.

About Us

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn't just a workplace; it's a place to build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:

• Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Employee & dependent scholarship program to pursue higher education
• Generous retirement plans with university match

Learn more about UNL benefits and your total compensation at: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus (4) years of related experience in financial management, accounting, grant administration, or related field. Equivalent education/experience considered.
• Experience working with SAP or another large integrated financial system.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, including Excel for data analysis and reporting, and the ability to learn and use new technologies.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and university policies.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive, collaborative relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work, manage multiple deadlines, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

• Experience with grant, project, or cost accounting.
• Experience providing consultative support, training, or mentoring.
• Experience in a higher education environment.

Posted Salary $51,961/yr minimum