Senior Finance Analyst – Grants & Programs

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

Birch Aquarium at Scripps seeks a Senior Finance Analyst to drive financial strategy across diverse programs, including self-supporting initiatives and sponsored research. The role ensures accuracy, policy compliance, and strategic alignment with institutional goals.

The position leads month-end close, conducts cash flow analysis, and provides actionable insights to support budgeting and grant administration, reporting to the Executive Director of Scripps Educational Alliances.

Qualifications

• Experience with federal and non-federal agency requirements and regulations for sponsored research from proposal preparation through close out, incl. CAS, FDP, etc.
• Ability to analyze complex financial issues and recommend solutions.
• Fund-based accounting experience in a university or related field.
• Thorough knowledge of finance policies, practices, and systems.
• Advanced skills with spreadsheet and database software for financial analysis, fiscal management, and reports.
• Ability to clearly present information verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills, multi-tasking in a high-volume environment.
• Understanding of internal controls to protect University resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead the month-end close and deliver accurate financial reports.
• Research and implement new accounting standards; draft organizational policies.
• Perform cash flow analysis and liquidity management.
• Lead complex analyses to evaluate program performance and resource forecasting.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to drive transparency and accountability.
• Advise the Executive Director on financial controls, grant administration, and budgeting.

Skills

Financial analysis

Regulatory compliance

Analytical thinking

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting

Tools

Excel / spreadsheets

General ledger systems

Job description

Birch Aquarium at Scripps seeks a Senior Finance Analyst to drive financial strategy across diverse programs, including self-supporting initiatives and sponsored research. The role ensures accuracy, policy compliance, and strategic alignment with institutional goals.

The position leads month-end close, conducts cash flow analysis, and provides actionable insights to support budgeting and grant administration, reporting to the Executive Director of Scripps Educational Alliances.