The External Reporting Accountant participates in the preparation and analysis of the University and benefit plans audited financial statements, and other special purpose reports. This position also enhances communication and understanding between the department and other University Accounting functions in order to effectively produce GAAP financial statements. In addition, the External Reporting Accountant researches and interprets emerging accounting issues impacting year-end audited financial statements.
Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Prepare and analyze the various components of the University audited financial statements and coordinating their completion with the external auditors.
Review components of the financial statements provided by various department managers to ensure integrity of data disclosed in the financial statements.
Explain report variances in written form to Senior Management.
Communicate detail of financial statement results to external auditors during audit process.
Direct and coordinate preparation of the Universityâ™s audited Report on Federal Financial Assistance in Accordance with OMB Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance report).
Prepare the Washington University Retirement Savings Plan (the 403(b)) and the Retirement Medical Savings Account Plan (RMSA) audited financial statements and coordinate the audit with the external accountants.
Prepare and submit the NSF Survey of research expenditures and the financial segment of the IPEDS survey.
Prepare other special purpose surveys and reports as needed.
Other duties and special projects as assigned by Senior Management to support other sections of the departmental functions, including but not limited to, the Universityâ™s Tax and Cost Analysis departments and others as needed.
Research and interpret technical accounting literature for proper application of such principles by other University personnel.
Conduct and document moderately complex accounting activities on financial analysis projects.
Work towards minimizing on-top adjustments to financial statements by reviewing current recording methodologies and proposing changes.
Remain educated in new applications to ensure effective and efficient delivery of information.
Develop, maintain and update policies, procedures and checklists documenting preparation of audited financial statements and other work assignments.
Maintain current knowledge of regulations regarding accounting practices in a University setting.
Recommend policy and procedure enhancements.
Working Conditions
Hybrid office environment, reporting to West Campus as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Public Accountant.
Familiarity with nonprofit accounting guidelines.
A Master's of Business Administration is a plus.
Three years of public accounting experience, excellent accounting skills and a working knowledge of GAAP.
A service-oriented communicator who is an accessible team player with the ability to forge relationships and bring groups together on difficult accounting issues.
A self-motivated, reliable productive individual with a high degree of analytical intelligence and the ability to read and interpret complex accounting rules and apply them to transactions and activities of the University as needed.
This person must posses the competency to meet deadlines with varying degrees of pressure and be able to handle confidential information responsibly.
Required Qualifications
An undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, or business with a concentration in accounting.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
High computer and software aptitude with proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet and database management software applications and the flexibility to learn new applications as needed.
Four or more years of accounting and complex financial system experience, preferably in a University environment.
Grade
G12
Salary Range
$55,600.00 - $94,900.00 / AnnuallyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.
Accommodation
If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.
Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.
Benefits Statement
Personal
Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.
WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
Wellness
Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
Family
We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? Weâ™ve got you covered.
WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the Universityâ™s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment â“ fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.
Washington University in St. Louis, a medium-sized, independent university, is dedicated to challenging its faculty and students alike to seek new knowledge and greater understanding of an ever-changing, multicultural world. The University offers more than 90 programs and almost 1,500 courses leading to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in a broad spectrum of traditional and interdisciplinary fields, with additional opportunities for minor concentrations and individualized programs. The faculty is composed of scholars, scientists, artists and members of the learned professions. They serve society by teaching; by adding to the store of human art, creativity, understanding, and wisdom; and by providing direct services, such as health care.