Accounting Specialist

The University Controller's Office, led by the Assoc. VP/Controller, is primarily responsible for safeguarding university wide institutional resources and provides accounting, analytical and operational financial support for the instructional, research and service missions of USF, while ensuring compliance with all Federal, State, and regulatory financial guidelines. The UCO consists of Accounting and Reporting Services (General Accounting, Financial Reporting, Research Cash Management, Asset Management, & Construction Accounting); Student Accounting Services (Cashier's Office, Student Accounting & Customer Service, and Accounts Receivable); and the Office of Budget & Financial Analysis. All of the groups in this division have unique and collaborative missions including State University System financial and budget reporting, internal reporting & analysis.

Responsible for processing and maintaining records for all checks returned to the University by the bank (insufficient funds, acct closed, etc.). Trains and advises USF departments on procedures for handling returned checks. Communicates directly with students and customers regarding returned checks. Responsible for reconciliation of returned check accounts/funds.

• Reviews and analyzes all checks returned to USF by the bank to gather and record vital information needed for collection by USF and collection agencies.
• Enters student data into Banner which integrates with the Returned Check Information System database to generate a series of notification/collection letters. Enters Non-student data into FAST.
• Maintains database and documentation files of all current and outstanding returned checks. Counsels and advises students/customers of procedures to clear checks. Manages all communications regarding returned checks and ensures prompt notification of returned items. Determines if additional steps are required it returned items are not cleared. If not cleared, a student may be cancelled for non-payment of fees, an employee can have set-off procedures implemented to deduct from their paycheck, or the customer can be turned over to the State Attorney's Office Victim Assistance Program. This position is authorized to establish agreements for payment of returned checks.
• Creates contracts in Banner for Third Party Department to post charges for students who are covered by departments or entities outside of individual students.

This position requires a High School diploma and four years of related experience in an accounting function. Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at .

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws :

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.