Staff Accountant - Operations & Planning Division

Job Description:

The Staff Accountant for the Operations and Planning Division is a critical role in the administering and supporting the financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal accountability of a diverse portfolio of auxiliary and operational services across the University. This role supports operational leaders in making informed, data-driven decisions that align divisional priorities with institutional strategic and financial objectives. The position is responsible for managing revenue and expense budgets for departmental units within the Division and serves as a primary liaison between the Operations and Planning Division and the University Business Office in matters of budget development, forecasting, reconciliation, and financial reporting. The Staff Accountant provides financial oversight and administrative coordination for construction and renovation projects, assists with vendor contract tracking and compliance, oversees invoice processing workflows, manages financial components of rental property leases, and supports financial oversight of campus utility systems including electric, natural gas, water, sewer, and waste services.

Essential Position Duties and Responsibilities:

Budget Planning and Financial Management:

Develop, manage, and monitor annual operating budgets for departments within the Operations and Planning Division, including Maintenance, Custodial Services, Grounds, Life Safety Systems, Student Dining Services, Catering and Conference Services, Campus Bookstore, Campus Security, Mailroom Operations, elements of Student Housing, and Campus Utilities. Collaborate with divisional leadership and the University Business Office to support annual budget planning, mid-year adjustments, and long-range financial forecasting. Prepare and maintain monthly financial reports and detailed actual to budget variance analysis and quarterly year-end forecasting. Perform account reconciliations and ensure accuracy of financial transactions across departmental cost centers. Identify trends, risks, and opportunities within operational spending and revenue performance.

Utility Financial Oversight:

Track and reconcile utility expenditures across campus facilities and operational units. Assist with forecasting utility costs based on historical usage, seasonal trends, and rate changes. Support the validation and processing of utility invoices in coordination with Accounts Payable. Maintain financial records related to utility consumption and cost allocation across departments and facilities. Assist divisional leadership in identifying opportunities for improved efficiency and cost management related to utility usage.

Capital Projects and Construction Budget Oversight:

Assist in establishing and maintaining financial tracking systems for construction and renovation projects. Monitor project budgets, commitments, and expenditures to ensure alignment with approved funding levels. Coordinate with project managers and external vendors to support invoice validation and payment processes. Maintain financial documentation for audit, compliance, and reporting purposes.

Vendor Contract and Invoice Administration:

Assist with tracking vendor agreements and service contracts to ensure alignment with approved budget allocations. Support contract renewal tracking and financial reporting related to service agreements. Oversee invoice processing workflows for divisional departments, ensuring timely approvals and payment submissions. Collaborate with Accounts Payable and Procurement staff to resolve discrepancies or payment issues.

Lease and Rental Property Financial Management:

Manage financial records associated with divisional rental properties, including lease payment tracking and reconciliation. Support lease agreement administration in coordination with University leadership and external tenants. Monitor lease-related revenue streams and assist with reporting and forecasting.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; or an Associate's degree in accounting and two (2) years of relevant experience or a high school diploma and experience equivalent to five (5) years of employment in accounting or related work. Demonstrated experience in budgeting, financial analysis, and reconciliation. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting systems. Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a dynamic operational environment. Applicant must be currently authorized to work in the United States. Ashland University will not sponsor or take over sponsorship for an employment visa.

Applicant Portal URL:

8379