Senior Budget Accountant

Indian River State College; Port Saint Lucie (FL); On-site; USD 58,070 - 70,974; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Flexible spending accounts

Generous paid vacation

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Indian River State College in Port Saint Lucie is seeking a Financial Analyst to provide high-level analytical support for the Chief Budget Officer. You will assist in the development of the College’s budgets and ensure effective resource allocation.

Ideal candidates will have at least five years of experience in financial planning, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in relevant software. The role offers a salary starting at $64,522.32 and a range of benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of progressive experience in accounting, budgeting, or financial planning.
• Knowledge of fund accounting and governmental accounting principles.
• Experience in higher education or government environments is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Participate in budget meetings and workshops.
• Analyze and forecast complex financial data.
• Monitor budget activity for adherence to policies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Critical thinking

Education

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

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Summary

Under administrative guidelines, this position provides high‑level analytical and operational support to the Chief Budget Officer and senior leadership in the development, implementation, and oversight of the College’s operating and capital improvement budgets. The role involves financial planning, budget formulation, and policy guidance, ensuring that institutional resources are effectively allocated and aligned with strategic priorities. Responsibilities include collaborating with departments and human resources to review and refine budget requests, conducting cost‑benefit analyses, and ensuring compliance with fiscal policies.

Responsibilities

• Participate in budget meetings, workshops, and hearings to support the development and administration of annual operating and capital improvement budgets.
• Analyze and forecast complex financial and budget data, including revenue projections, expense allocations, and HR‑related budget adjustments, using large datasets.
• Monitor budget activity for adherence to organizational policies and financial regulations.
• Analyze spending patterns, conduct account analyses, and make recommendations for improved fiscal management.
• Prepare, reconcile, and present financial reports with advanced analysis, trend evaluation, and forecasting. Clearly communicate complex financial concepts to stakeholders at all levels.
• Advise departments on budgeting policies, procedures, and best practices to promote compliance and effective financial stewardship.
• Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard financial assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Contribute to the development of organizational financial strategy and governance practices.
• Utilize ERP systems, budgeting software, and reporting tools to support financial planning and reporting. Conduct cost‑benefit analyses and develop record‑keeping systems.
• Collaborate with departmental directors and staff to refine budget requests, identify cost‑saving opportunities, and ensure optimal resource allocation.
• Coordinate with HR on staffing changes and related budgetary impacts.
• Provide training and guidance to departmental staff on budgeting processes and financial management tools.
• Complete all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum five (5) years of progressive experience in accounting, budgeting, or financial planning.
• Knowledge of fund accounting and governmental accounting principles; experience in higher education is preferred.
• Prior experience in higher education or government environments strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in financial software applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, ERP systems) and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to analyze, develop, and produce spreadsheets and complex budget reports.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and summarize complex financial data for varied audiences.
• Demonstrated skill in applying sound budgeting principles and exercising independent judgment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to present complex financial information clearly to non‑financial stakeholders, including executive leadership and governing boards.
• Diplomatic skill in explaining budget procedures and in obtaining sensitive or confidential information.
• Proven financial leadership and decision‑making capabilities.
• Highly organized and self‑motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities.
• Discretion in handling confidential or sensitive information.
• Familiarity with construction management budgeting is a plus.

Physical Demands

This position is sedentary, with occasional lifting up to 10 pounds and occasional walking and standing. The work requires sitting for extended periods with periodic movement.

Classification and Compensation

Staff: Yes. Supervisory: No. FLSA Exempt: Yes. Employment Type: Regular. Compensation: Pay range starts at $64,522.32. Position remains open until filled.

About Indian River State College

Indian River State College is a leading public institution on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. The college is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs that meet the region’s needs.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; life insurance; supplemental plans; and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Affordable Coverage: PPO and HMO options starting at approximately $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage.
• Retirement Security: Florida Retirement System (FRS) participation, plus optional tax‑deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans.
• Work‑Life Balance: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave.
• Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and access to local attraction discounts.
• Growth & Development: Professional development opportunities, leadership training, and career advancement pathways.