Senior Accountant

University of California; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of California is seeking a Senior Accountant responsible for preparing and analyzing financial statements while maintaining accurate financial records in New York. The job includes managing reconciliations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with various College offices.

Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, along with 3-5 years of relevant experience. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel are critical for this role.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in accounting or financial operations, preferably in higher education.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Experience with financial software and systems in higher education preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage bank statement reconciliation and identify discrepancies.
• Prepare journal entries and contribute to financial statements.
• Assist in audit preparation and ensure accurate record-keeping.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Excellent organizational abilities

Strong communication skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field

Job description

Position Overview

The Senior Accountant is responsible for preparing and analyzing financial statements and maintaining accurate financial records. This role manages the reconciliation of accounts, administers the escheatment process, and coordinates efforts with various College offices including Advancement, Payroll, and Student Accounts. The position requires attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and the capacity to assist with process improvements that enhance operational efficiency.

Essential Functions

• Manage the reconciliation of bank statements, operating and payroll accounts, ensuring accuracy and timely identification of discrepancies.
• Prepare the reconciliation of contributions and third-party payment platforms, ensuring accurate and timely recording.
• Administer the escheatment process by identifying and reporting unclaimed funds to meet state regulatory requirements.
• Prepare journal entries with supporting documentation and contribute to the preparation of financial statements.
• Assist in the preparation of supporting documents for the annual financial audit, ensuring a smooth audit process.
• Record and reconcile employee and employer retirement contributions to maintain accurate financial records.
• Review and reconcile clearing accounts to ensure proper financial management.
• Oversee the fixed assets subledger, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and accurate reporting.
• Partner with colleagues across campus, including Student Accounts, Campus Safety, and Information Technology to reconcile accounts and support operational needs.

Additional Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for cross‑training within the department to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Implement best practices in accounting to enhance efficiency and transparency.
• Learn and integrate new financial technologies and tools as they are introduced.
• Provide additional assistance to the Office of Student Accounts during peak periods to ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Physical and Cognitive Requirements

• Primarily sedentary, involving extended periods of sitting and significant computer use.
• Frequent verbal and written communication required.
• Capacity to organize and synthesize detailed information.
• Occasional walking/standing required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• A minimum of 3 – 5 years of experience in accounting or financial operations, preferably within higher education or nonprofit environments.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Excellent organizational abilities with the capacity to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends, as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with financial software and systems used in higher education.
• Knowledge of escheatment processes and compliance requirements.
• Experience supporting financial audits and working with external auditors.

EEO Statement

Sarah Lawrence seeks to recruit and retain a diverse administration, staff, and faculty. Every job opening is seen as an opportunity to increase diversity, and every effort will be made to expand the applicant pool in accordance with these goals. For information on Sarah Lawrence College, our curriculum, teaching methods, and philosophy of education, please visit our website at https://www.sarahlawrence.edu/.