Finance Specialist

Department

Library Administration - Human Resources & Facilities Administration

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and University holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

The Finance Specialist reports to the Senior Director of Human Resources and Interim Head of Finance and will support the Library Finance Manager by providing budget, financial, and analytical input, and assisting with special projects. The Finance Specialist will use knowledge of general and organizational finance systems to help coordinate analysis and reporting for the Library’s operating, endowment, gifts, capital, and other internal budgets.

• Works with Library departments to prepare, monitor, and analyze budgets. Utilizes moderate knowledge of finance to help coordinate year-end reporting for the operating budget.
• Prepares monthly financial forecast reports for the Central Budget office, conducts and corrects errors in accounts using existing procedures that are in place, and provides advice on the financial impact of Library Operations and Service decisions.
• Supports monthly, quarterly, and annual department reporting processes.
• Reviews department requests for purchase of supplies, services, and other procurement in conformance with University and Library policies and processes and consistent with Library service needs and budget allocations. Provides appropriate chart of accounts as needed.
• Performs a variety of accounts receivable/payable related activities using existing procedures to solve routine or standard problems.
• Performs journal entries or expense transfers in the Oracle system as needed.
• Supports new and continuous training for department staff.
• Maintains spreadsheets, databases, and financial tracking tools.
• Responds to and researches accounts receivable/payable inquiries including payments to vendors and reimbursements to individuals with guidance and direction from others.
• Collects, interprets, and performs routine analyses of payables data. Likely to act as an informal resource to associates with less experience.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

• A college or university degree in related field highly preferred, preferably in accounting or finance.

• Minimum two years of finance, accounting, or financial auditing are highly preferred.

• Proficiency with computers, including electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial systems, and word processing applications.
• Proficiency with University research, financial and HR/payroll systems including Oracle, AURA, Concur, Workday or similar systems.
• Aptitude for financial terms and formulas and/or prior experience for working with business essential finance formulas, including completing estimations/projections, and budget calculations strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of general accounting standards, budgets, invoice, payment tracking, and fiscal reporting preferred.

• Excellent organizational skills with considerable skill in solving…