Accounting Specialist

About This Role

This Accounting Specialist position supports the Shared Service Centers Finance at the University of Kansas. The role involves performing day-to-day financial activities for assigned units, departments, and centers, working closely with the SSC Finance Manager or Director. It requires strong accounting skills to provide financial support, accurate information for decision-making, and efficient transaction processing, all within an environment of excellent client service.

Responsibilities

• Process payments and purchase requisitions through university financial systems, determining appropriate accounts and funding
• Develop unit processes to ensure appropriate funding sources and resource availability for purchases
• Audit and review procurement card purchases for compliance with University, Endowment, and KUCR accounting systems
• Manage travel reimbursements, reviewing requests for compliance with laws and regulations, and processing payments
• Apply knowledge of university purchasing, bid procedures, contracts, and federal regulations for appropriate purchases
• Process accounts receivable transactions in the university financial system
• Work with the Finance Manager to resolve billing errors, non-receipt of invoices, and discrepancies
• Verify scholarship recipients, process posting forms to Financial Aid and Scholarship, and provide data and reports upon request
• Participate in day-to-day fiscal operations to ensure compliance with University, Endowment, and KUCR accounting principles
• Monitor posted expenses and process cost transfers when needed, ensuring expenditures follow University and Endowment processes
• Identify discrepancies to supervisor and unit Director/Chair
• Work with the Finance Manager to inform and assist the Director/Chair with operational needs and budgetary impact
• Work with the Finance Manager to provide financial information for annual operating budget development
• Work with the Finance Manager to provide non-standard reports and statements as requested
• Gather data for and prepare budgetary, statistical, reconciliation, and other reports for leadership
• Monitor accounts receivable, revenues, and expenses
• Escalate questions as appropriate to the SSC Finance Manager and/or the Chair/Director
• Coordinate with central finance on interpreting and communicating finance policies, procedures, and programs
• Review and recommend changes to department and SSC procedures for policy compliance
• Prepare and update procedural manuals and instructional materials
• Serve as a resource to department staff and faculty for policy compliance
• Participate in department meetings and events to maintain knowledge and relationships