An Accountant organizes and maintains financial records and prepares financial statements for companies and organizations. Works as a public accountant (prepares financial documents where public disclosure is required by law, such as business balance sheets and tax returns), management accountant (prepares financial information for internal use by a company) or government accountant (maintains records for government agencies).
Exempt Job Summary The Senior Accountant is responsible for performing advanced professional accounting and financial analysis in support of the University's financial operations. This position ensures accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial records through account reconciliations, journal entries, grant accounting, revenue and indirect cost tracking, financial reporting, and transaction analysis. The Senior Accountant supports post-award grant administration, maintains financial data within institutional and state accounting systems, and provides guidance and training to Accountant I and II staff. This role requires strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, along with a thorough understanding of accounting principles, regulatory requirements, and financial reporting processes. Essential Job Functions Grant Accounting and Financial Management
Manage the financial administration of sponsored projects and grants from award setup through closeout. Establish grant budgets within the University's financial system, monitor expenditures and revenue activity, reconcile grant accounts monthly, and ensure compliance with sponsor, state, federal, and institutional requirements. Review financial transactions for allowability and accuracy, track indirect cost recovery, prepare financial reports as requested, and assist principal investigators and departmental personnel with grant-related financial matters.
Financial Analysis, Reconciliations, and Reporting
Perform complex account reconciliations and financial analyses to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the University's financial records. Reconcile general ledger accounts, cash balances, and subsidiary systems; research and resolve discrepancies; analyze financial trends and variances; and support the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports. Assist in year-end closing activities and provide supporting documentation for internal and external reporting requirements.
Journal Entries, Transaction Processing, and State Reporting
Prepare, review, and process journal entries, cost allocations, corrections, payment applications, and other accounting transactions in a timely and accurate manner. Maintain financial records within Banner Finance and the State of Texas Uniform Statewide Accounting System (USAS), ensuring compliance with applicable accounting standards, state regulations, and institutional policies. Support departmental accounting functions through transaction review and account maintenance.
Accounts Management, Auditing, and Financial Compliance
Support accounts payable and accounts receivable processes by reviewing invoices, reimbursements, deposits, and other financial transactions for accuracy and appropriateness. Assist with fixed asset accounting, encumbrance monitoring, budgetto-actual analysis, and inventory reporting. Conduct transaction audits and account reviews to ensure compliance with internal controls, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), University policies, and regulatory requirements.
Customer Service, Training, and Operational Support
Provide professional accounting support and guidance to university departments, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders. Monitor and respond to inquiries received through the post-award shared mailbox and other communication channels in a timely manner. Train and mentor Accountant I and Accountant II staff by providing instruction on accounting procedures, financial systems, and compliance requirements. Collaborate across departments to support operational efficiency and continuous improvement of financial processes.
Minimum and Desired Qualifications Minimum Qualifications:
Three years in accounting/business office experience.
Desired Qualifications:
Advanced Degree in business or CPA
Five years of business experience
Five years of ERP experience - Banner, USAS, Cardinal Purchasing
Supplemental Information Key Competencies:
Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), federal, state, university, and NACUBO guidelines
Excel and Database management experience
Familiarity with MS Excel & Word & Outlook
Able to analyze & reconcile accounts and data sets
Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others
Understand the concept of internal control
Effective Communication skills
Grant Experience
Physical Requirements:
Able to lift 25 lbs. and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing and walking between buildings.
Job Conditions:
Work is typically performed in an office environment during normal business hours. Occasional extended hours may be required to meet operational needs, reporting deadlines, or special projects.
Who We Are:
Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance. Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community.
Special Note:
We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future. Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003. This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information. To apply, please visit https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/lamar/jobs/5455320/sr-accountant je-ccafed595c134ec09eeaf582cf038384 HigherEd360 is part of the HigherEdJobs network.
