Financial Analyst
Columbia University
- Job Type: Officer of Administration
- Bargaining Unit:
- Regular/Temporary: Regular
- End Date if Temporary:
- Hours Per Week: 35
- Standard Work Schedule:
- Building:
- Salary Range: $72,000 to $76,500
Position Summary
The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics is seeking a dedicated professional to oversee the research programs and manage various projects for the Department during the pre- and post-award phases, and for monitoring budgets and expenditures for government, private, and other projects.
About the School:
The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics is part of a prestigious institution known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence. The school offers a collaborative and innovative environment, fostering interdisciplinary research and education. With a commitment to advancing knowledge in applied physics and applied mathematics, the department is home to world-renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, providing a dynamic and supportive setting for both students and staff
Responsibilities
- Financial Reconciliation & Reporting (30%):
- Reconcile all expenditures monthly and process corrections using the Journal Entry and Cost Transfer modules.
- Prepare and distribute monthly financial reports to PIs for sponsored and non-sponsored projects, including payroll, transaction details, and summary data to support planning and decision-making.
- Maintain a department-wide database of account transactions and ensure accurate documentation and filing.
- Assist with fiscal year-end closing, including affirming POs and reconciling departmental, discretionary, and start-up projects.
- Assist with the closeout of government grant projects.
- Payroll & Student Support (35%):
- Develop and maintain an internal salary database with real-time updates; manage reconciliation procedures to ensure proper allocation of salary charges each month.
- Process salary distributions for GRAs, DRAs, and TAs.
- Reconcile student tuition, stipends, and fees.
- Support the Business Manager by clearing payroll suspense and assisting PIs with budget preparation.
- Purchasing & Compliance (15%):
- Review and process purchase orders, P-Card transactions, travel and business expense reports, check requests, and invoices, ensuring compliance with University and government policies.
- Complete annual Recharge Center license applications and manage quarterly billing for SEM, Poster Printer, Microstructural Characterization, and Structural & Mechanical Property licenses.
- Collaboration & Administrative Support (20%):
- Serve as liaison with Facilities, Accounts Payable, Sponsored Project Administration, Sponsored Project Finance, Controller’s Office, and Purchasing.
- Serve as backup processor for casual personnel forms and timesheets.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as finance, accounting, business administration, or a related discipline.
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Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in financial management, project coordination, or a similar role.
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Proficiency in financial software and database management.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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Experience with budget preparation and financial reporting.
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Familiarity with government and private grant regulations and compliance.
Preferred Qualifications
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Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field.
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Experience in an academic or research environment.
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Knowledge of university financial systems and policies.
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Proficiency in advanced Excel functions and data analysis tools.
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Certification in project management (e.g., PMP) or financial management (e.g., CPA).
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Experience with journal entry and cost transfer modules.
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Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
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Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
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Experience with salary reconciliation procedures and processes.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.