Senior Accountant

Sarah Lawrence College; Village of Bronxville (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a Senior Accountant based in Bronxville, NY. This role involves preparing and analyzing financial statements, managing account reconciliations, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and experience in financial operations.

Key responsibilities include overseeing reconciliation processes, administering escheatment, and collaborating with various departments. Required qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance and 3-5 years of relevant experience.

The expected salary for this position ranges from $65k to $80k annually.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 – 5 years of experience in accounting or financial operations.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Responsibilities

• Manage reconciliation of bank statements and payroll accounts.
• Prepare journal entries and contribute to financial statements.
• Administer the escheatment process by identifying unclaimed funds.

Skills

Analytical skills

Knowledge of Microsoft Excel

Organizational abilities

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

Financial software used in higher education

Job description

Senior Accountant

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.

Salary

$65k – $80k