Accounting Associate

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of Budget and Finance is seeking Accounting Associates to support the University’s financial operations by performing a variety of accounting and financial support activities. Accounting Associates are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, processing accounting transactions, assisting with billing and reconciliation functions, and supporting financial reporting efforts. The Accounting Associate serves as a point of contact for University departments and other stakeholders, providing guidance and support on accounting-related inquiries while ensuring compliance with University policies and applicable accounting standards.
These positions could be placed within the General Accounting or Internal Billing departments. This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with coworkers and University stakeholders
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and resolve issues
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity of financial information
• If filled as Accounting Associate - Senior Support, this position requires: Associate Degree 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• If filled as Accounting Associate - Intermediate Support, this position requires: General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update financial records with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Review accounting records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and proper classification and coding of income and expenditures
• Process accounting transactions, including billing-related activity, journal entries, and reconciliations
• Identify accounting discrepancies, make necessary corrections, and update financial databases accordingly
• Verify, reconcile, and correct financial data to ensure compliance with University policies, financial recording standards, and accounting best practices
• Analyze and approve journal entries in accordance with established financial policies and procedures
• Coordinate with University departments, suppliers, and other stakeholders to resolve accounting issues, reconcile statements, and provide documentation or clarification
• Compile, organize, and maintain financial data to support internal management reports and external reporting requirements
• Enter, retrieve, and maintain accurate financial information using computerized accounting and financial systems
• Provide general guidance to departments and customers regarding accounting policies and procedures
• Serve as a point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, responding to accounting-related inquiries in a clear, accurate, and timely manner
• Monitor compliance with institutional policies and procedures related to financial recording and reporting

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees