Senior Financial Analyst - 140622

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

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 08/04/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a non-profit exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. The aquarium showcases over 60 habitats of fish and invertebrates. The interactive museum features research discoveries by Scripps scientists and engages visitors of all ages.

Our goal is to promote conservation efforts that protect our ocean planet. We educate visitors on how our world works and inspire them to become stewards of the planet. Our conservation efforts are based on scientific research, and we aim to connect people with nature and with a shared sense of responsibility to care for our planet Earth.

Website: aquarium.ucsd.edu

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Senior Finance Analyst is a pivotal figure within the financial management landscape of Birch Aquarium and Scripps Educational Alliances, driving the strategic and operational effectiveness of diverse programs and units. With a portfolio characterized by multiple fund types-including complex self-supporting initiatives and sponsored research activities-this role demands a seasoned professional adept at navigating intricate financial environments.

Responsible for ensuring financial integrity and strategic alignment. Oversees accounting functions such as general ledger reconciliation, journal entry preparation, and policy compliance to managing contracts, grants, gifts, and donations. Ensures that every financial transaction is accurate, timely, and adheres to institutional standards. Serves as a trusted advisor to the Executive Director, offering critical insights and solutions on financial controls, grant administration, and budgeting.

The Senior Finance Analyst spearheads the month-end close process, delivering precise financial reports that inform key decisions. This position is instrumental in researching and implementing new accounting standards, crafting organizational policies, and preparing disclosures that meet emerging requirements. Through detailed cash flow analysis and liquidity management, they ensure that financial resources are optimized to support the institution's mission and objectives.

Leads complex financial analyses to evaluate program performance and forecast resource allocations. Leverages advanced analytical tools and methodologies and provides actionable insights that shape the strategic direction of the organization. Acting as a bridge between financial data and operational goals, contributes to broader impact initiatives, particularly in support of the Director of Scripps Educational Alliances.

Interacts and collaborates with stakeholders across departments and administrative units, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and innovation. Participates actively in financial meetings, offering expertise and thought leadership to drive organizational success.

In this role, attention to detail, a commitment to excellence, and the ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly are nonnegotiable. The Senior Finance Analyst not only ensures the financial health of Birch Aquarium and Scripps Educational Alliances but also serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement, shaping policies and practices that safeguard institutional resources and support sustainable growth.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with federal and non-federal agency requirements and regulations for sponsored research from proposal preparation through close out, including but not limited to Cost Accounting Standards Uniform Guidance, Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP), etc


• Experience with analyzing complex financial issues, recognizing potential impact, identifying creative and alternative solutions, and making recommendations.


• Demonstrated experience with fund-based accounting in a university or related field.


• Thorough knowledge of finance policies, practices, and systems.


• Advanced experience using spreadsheet and database software for complex financial analysis, fiscal management, and financial reports.


• Ability to independently gather required information to organize, and perform financial analysis assignments.


• Proven ability to effectively present information verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner.


• Strong interpersonal skills with peers throughout the organization; strong service orientation and critical thinking skills; and attention to detail.


• Proven ability using organizational skills to multi-task in a high volume environment.


• Thorough knowledge and understanding of internal control practices and their impact on protecting University resources.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) training will be required. Must meet CANRA compliance requirement per California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (\"CANRA,\" Penal Code sections 11164-11174.4).

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $81,600 - $147,800 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $39.08 - $70.79

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).