Grants & Budgeting Financial Specialist

University of Tennessee; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Tennessee seeks a Financial Specialist to plan, manage, and coordinate fiscal and human resources operations for the unit. This role carries signature authority for transactions and supports strategic budgeting, compliance, and external funding management.

Responsibilities include analyzing ledgers, preparing budgets, grant oversight, and coordinating with the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects to ensure timely account setups and closures.

Qualifications

• Education: High School diploma or GED.
• Experience: 5 years of accounting, business administration, and HR management experience.
• Advanced knowledge of accounting policies and procedures.
• Excellent communication, customer service and organization skills.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize a heavy workload.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks with deadlines.
• Ability to work autonomously and within a team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, reconcile, and evaluate general ledgers and financial reports for compliance.
• Advise staff, students, and faculty on financial policies and reporting.
• Prepare and coordinate budgets and grant proposals; monitor grants.
• Maintain records of PI grants/contracts and expenditures with status updates.
• Prepare cost transfers and accounting documents.
• Post entries for scholarships, fellowships, and tuition waivers.
• Liaise with college and university personnel to verify financial records.
• Assist with year-end budget, closing, and carryover of funds.

Skills

Accounting knowledge

Communication skills

Organization skills

Time management

Independent work

Education

High School diploma or GED

Associate's degree + 4+ years accounting/HR experience

Bachelor's degree + 3-4 years accounting/HR experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

University finance systems

Job description

The University of Tennessee seeks a Financial Specialist to plan, manage, and coordinate fiscal and human resources operations for the unit. This role carries signature authority for transactions and supports strategic budgeting, compliance, and external funding management.

Responsibilities include analyzing ledgers, preparing budgets, grant oversight, and coordinating with the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects to ensure timely account setups and closures.