Accounting Specialist

Azusa Pacific University is seeking a highly skilled Accounting Analyst to join our team. As a key member of our accounting department, you will be responsible for providing reporting and technical accounting support to ensure accurate and timely accounting and reporting of investment accounts in accordance with GAAP and FASB, federal, state, county, and district requirements.

• Provide reporting and technical accounting support to ensure accurate and timely accounting and reporting of investment accounts
• Oversee, coordinate, direct, and participate in financial record-keeping, reporting, accounting, and related auditing functions
• Manage tight deadlines and a multitude of activities, including policy and procedure compliance, reporting and analysis, annual audit and tax assistance, external reporting activities, and support of technical accounting activities
• Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls
• Collaborate with the Controller to provide support and guidance to ensure that accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls are in compliance with all policies and procedures
• Interface with the Business Office teams and other operational departments to assist the manager and team with other matters to ensure that the team is adhering to all policies and procedures overall
• Perform weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks and checks for all systems and monitor procedural documentation, internal controls, and update deadlines
• Evaluate operational and procedural compliance by examining and analyzing operational system data, manual documentation, and interviewing staff and management
• Analyze and update existing business rules and related documentation
• Communicate business policies and guidelines to management and designated departments
• Meet with Construction and Designing Managers at least once a month to review spending versus budget and the Work-in-Progress
• Design workflow and process strategies to improve business performance
• Oversee the implementation of revised company processes and workflows
• Stay up to date with the latest business practices and technologies
• Prepare and examine reports, with an eye on accuracy and compliance
• Prepare cost and revenue analysis, income and expense statements, and financial projections for all Capital Projects
• Create tools and metrics to track and analyze implemented process improvements and ensure that program benchmarks are met and continually evaluated
• Develop ad hoc reports and analyze for program and division leadership to support strategic planning for short- and long-term goals
• Complete special assignments, which include research activities over complex accounting problems/issues, as required
• Prepare reports to maintain compliance, such as bond reporting
• Serve as a backup for processes such as bond reporting and other matters for Controller and team
• Assist Controller with the preparation of Form 990, NDT, 403b audit, annual financial statement audits, and external financial reports
• Evaluate the impact of new FASB accounting standards as it applies to financials and participate in planning and developing financial reporting tools/guides for implementing new standards
• Perform related duties as assigned and make a positive contribution as demonstrated by making suggestions for business office process improvement, learning new skills, procedures, and processes

• Bachelor's degree in accounting required
• CPA or CPA Candidate preferred
• A minimum of five (5+) years of complex accounting analysis and accounting experience is required, experience preferably in higher education with an accounting background
• Extensive knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and FASB standards
• Knowledge of statistical and mathematical presentation of data
• Knowledge of advanced proficiency with current word processing and spreadsheet software programs, web browsers, query tools, integrated financial systems, and/or other types of records management systems
• General knowledge of not-for-profit accounting and internal control methods and related laws, rules, and regulations
• Ability to prepare complex financial statements and reports; understand and interpret laws and rules; communicate effectively with others inside and outside the unit, including conveying complex and technical professional accounting information to non-Accountants

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent multi-tasking, presentation, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to query data from database preferably using SQL
• Ability to work with very little supervision
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task various duties and projects for completion
• Ability to manage details and follow through
• Must be collaborative and an effective team member and business partner
• Able to take initiatives and open to learning new systems and processes

Azusa Pacific University is a fast-paced, multi-tasking, high production/busy office environment. The ideal candidate will be able to work in a comfortable temperature environment and be able to pull, push, bend, grasp, reach, and lift up to 20 lbs.

The annual salary for this role is $73,724 to $84,783, and reflects what Azusa Pacific University reasonably expects to pay for this position. Actual compensation may vary based on the qualifications, experience, and internal equity. In addition to compensation, APU offers a competitive benefits package.