Accounting Assistant

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

The Accounting Financial Associate serves as a primary point of contact for departments and centers, providing accounting support that promotes the accuracy and compliance of financial records. With a strong foundation in accounting principles and university policies, this role is responsible for processing and reviewing journal entries and ensuring compliance with University policies and procedures, accounting standards, audit requirements, and applicable laws and regulations.

Working independently with minimal supervision, the Accounting Financial Associate conducts monthly reviews of default transactions and income and expense object code activity, partnering with unit finance staff to identify and process necessary adjustments. Through these activities, this role helps maintain accurate financial records, supports effective internal controls, and contributes to successful internal and external audits.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Independently perform complex accounting activities including translating business needs from local departments to journal entries
• Provide technical advice and problem resolution for a department on varied accounting issues
• Prepare and analyze journal entries, general ledger reconciliations, and account analysis to ensure accuracy of financial data
• Recognize long term implications of entry and work with accounting group to make database updates to eliminate need going forward
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing procedures in accordance with GAAP standards.
• Perform data entry tasks with high accuracy; handle journal entry processes efficiently.
• Collaborate with internal teams on financial audits, internal controls, and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensure financial compliance with University policies and procedures, audit and accounting disclosure requirements, and applicable legal rules and regulations.

Working Conditions: Work is performed in an office setting; this is a hybrid position requiring 1 day on campus (subject to change)

Physical Requirements: Sitting and using near vision for reading and computer work for extended periods of time

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• At least 3+ years’ related experience
• Associate’s degree in accounting or equivalent experience
• Experience with Excel, standard office tools and database software required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Strong proficiency in accounting software such as Oracle Financials
• Advanced knowledge of financial concepts including debits & credits, journal entries, account reconciliation, and general ledger accounting.
• Proven experience with corporate accounting practices including GAAP; experience in governmental or non-profit accounting is a plus.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to handle complex and confidential information with discretion
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn financial policies and procedures
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Customer service orientation and clear communication
• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with guidance

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information: All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.