Extension Assistant Specialist - Accountant-1

University of Arkansas System • Pine Bluff, AR

5d

About The Position

The Extension Assistant Specialist Accountant position supporting the School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences is a highly technical, cross-functional role requiring advanced accounting expertise, financial systems proficiency, and strong knowledge of regulatory compliance. This position plays a critical role in supporting informed decision-making through financial analysis, forecasting, and reporting, while ensuring compliance with state, federal, and institutional requirements. Key responsibilities include:
• Monitoring and evaluating SAFHS’s financial performance through detailed analysis and interpretation of financial data.
• Preparing complex financial reports, variance analyses, and long-range projections to support strategic planning.
• Administering financial reporting activities, audits, internal controls, and compliance obligations.
• Advising the Dean and leadership team on financial risks, opportunities, and fiscal strategy.
• Collaborating with grants and contracts offices to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of funded activities.
• Providing training and technical assistance to faculty and staff on financial policies, procedures, and Workday best practices.
• Supporting fiscal year-end close processes and internal and external audits.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
• A strong academic foundation in accounting principles, financial reporting, and compliance standards is necessary to support the analytical and regulatory responsibilities of the position.
• Minimum of 1–3 years of progressive accounting experience, with demonstrated expertise in Workday financial modules, reporting, reconciliations, and financial analysis.
• Proven experience preparing and analyzing complex financial reports, including variance analyses, multi-year trend reports, and budget-to-actual comparisons.
• Experience administering state and federal financial reporting, internal controls, and audit support activities.
• Demonstrated ability to perform advanced accounting functions, including journal entries, reconciliations, general ledger oversight, and fiscal year-end close processes.
• Experience collaborating with grants, contracts, and compliance offices to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of funded activities.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in higher education or public-sector accounting is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Monitoring and evaluating SAFHS’s financial performance through detailed analysis and interpretation of financial data.
• Preparing complex financial reports, variance analyses, and long-range projections to support strategic planning.
• Administering financial reporting activities, audits, internal controls, and compliance obligations.
• Advising the Dean and leadership team on financial risks, opportunities, and fiscal strategy.
• Collaborating with grants and contracts offices to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of funded activities.
• Providing training and technical assistance to faculty and staff on financial policies, procedures, and Workday best practices.
• Supporting fiscal year-end close processes and internal and external audits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level