Accountant-External Awards (Bursar)

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and experienced Accountant to support the Federal, State, and External Awards Team. This full‑time position is responsible for the accounting, reconciliation, reporting, and compliance of all federal, state, private, and university financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and external award funds.

The Accountant provides oversight for accounting operations of the Federal, State, and External Awards Team, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial transactions and records. Responsibilities include project management, regulatory compliance, financial reporting and analysis, system support, and the development of accounting procedures and internal controls. This role requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm‑Leach‑Bliley Act (GLBA).

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze, reconcile, and maintain financial records, accounts, and ledgers to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Investigate and resolve accounting discrepancies and exceptions
• Interpret and apply University, federal, state, and sponsor regulations; communicate policy updates as needed
• Coordinate month-end and year-end closing activities and prepare supporting documentation
• Prepare financial reports, analyses, and regulatory filings for internal and external stakeholders
• Support the development and monitoring of accounting procedures, internal controls, and compliance practices
• Process University payments via ACH, wire transfer, check, and virtual card in collaboration with Treasury
• Provide leadership and oversight of reconciliation activities within the unit
• Serve on committees and represent Student Financial Services as needed

Federal and State Aid Program Administration

• Maintain expertise in federal and state financial aid regulations and University policies governing student aid programs
• Monitor program transactions, postings, and funding activity
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations for aid programs
• Collaborate with the Office of Student Aid to resolve program-related issues
• Provide backup support for Direct Loan funding and control reporting activities

Daily Operations and Special Projects

• Respond to LionPATH inquiries and departmental email communications
• Review student accounts and research account-related questions
• Serve as a liaison between the awards team, Loan Servicing and Collections, and other campus partners
• Reconcile loan servicing records with the general ledger
• Support annual reporting requirements, including FISAP preparation
• Assist with fund management reporting and special projects
• Conduct research, analyze findings, and present recommendations to management

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate for this position must possess:

• Strong accounting expertise with demonstrated ability to accurately reconcile complex accounts and resolve discrepancies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with Penn State offices, external agencies, parents and families, and students
• Proven ability to analyze financial data and implement effective solutions
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to plan, organize, delegate, and prioritize work to meet deadlines
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• High level of professionalism with the ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire)
• Experience processing federal financial aid programs
• Experience with complex financial operations in a higher education environment

Additional Information

Employment with the University requires the successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with university policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities associated with this position, a credit history check is also required.

The successful candidate must be eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default).

Applicant review will begin on September 16th and will continue until the position is filled.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor''s Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 - $94,980.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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