Grant Accountant (R0004550)

Brandeis University, a medium-sized private research university with global reach, seeks a Grant Accountant in the Sponsored Program Accounting department (SPA). The SPA Grant Accountant is a newly created central administration position. The Grant Accountant reports to the Manager of Sponsored Programs Accounting, under the Office of Financial Affairs, and this person is part of the sponsored accounting team that is responsible for ensuring compliance with sponsor regulations, safeguarding project funds, maximizing the university’s cash flow position via timely and accurate billing, collections and resolution of budget overruns, maintaining good relations with sponsoring agencies and university staff, and facilitating the progress of sponsored projects for principal investigators and department administrators.

The Brandeis campus is located on 235 picturesque acres in Waltham, Massachusetts, a close suburb of Boston, a well-established hub for higher education and innovation.

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual interested in a career in a high research activity university dedicated to the advancement of the humanities, arts and social, natural and physical sciences. In addition, as a liberal arts college, Brandeis affirms the importance of a broad and critical education in enriching the lives of students and preparing them for full participation in a changing society, capable of promoting their own welfare, yet remaining deeply concerned about the welfare of others.

Responsibilities:

• Performs grant related post-award functions according to the terms and conditions of the sponsor including but not limited to budget and expense analysis, invoicing, financial reporting, and re-budgeting according to sponsor terms and regulations. Ensures these functions are properly and accurately  recorded into the university accounting system in a timely manner. Reviews current awards for proper assignment of fringe benefits and facility and administrative costs, ensures start & end dates are recorded correctly for each project, and reviews all projects for any deficit spending. Follow up with the appropriate parties for any problem resolution.
• Monitors accounts receivable balances. In a timely and accurate manner, prepares invoices, follows up on cash collections, manages grant closeout process including billing, collection, reporting, and recording data into university accounting system.
• With guidance from SPA Manager and Director when necessary, responsible for responding to department questions or requests for information, investigating problems and issues that arise with grant data. Provide guidance to Departmental staff in SPA grant management procedures and university policies. Facilitates department needs by developing and offering viable alternative solutions to issues and problems. Supports a positive and constructive relationship between various personnel and departments.
• Update and maintain grant reporting schedules. Communicate with SPA/PI/Departments concerning report status (upcoming, due, delinquent). Assist with special projects as assigned by SPA Manage and Director.

Education:

B.A./B.S. required. M.A./M.S. preferred.

Work Experience:

1-3 years of finance, accounting or grant administration experience, preferably in an academic or research environment.

Other Skills & Qualifications:

• Solid understanding of federal/University grant operations and knowledge of relevant sponsor regulations.
• Strong computer skills, particularly analytical skills, strong attention to detail, ability to manage/prioritize multiple projects.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience with Workday Finance/Grants preferred.

Closing Statement

Brandeis University is committed to providing its students, faculty and staff with an environment conducive to learning and working and where all people are treated with respect and dignity. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnicity, caste, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, including transgender identity, religion, disability, age, genetics, active military or veteran status and any other characteristics protected under applicable federal or Massachusetts law.