Accountant, Senior

Accountant, Senior

Northern Arizona University

• NAU is currently engaged in transitioning to a new employment category called University Staff
  , which aligns the current Classified Staff
  , Service Professional
  , and Administrator classifications into a single, unified employment group. As a result, while this position is currently classified as Service Professional
  , effective July 1, 2026
  , this position will be automatically transitioned to the University Staff category.
• This position is a hybrid position which allows the incumbent to complete their work at both an NAU site, campus, or facility and at a non-centralized site with or without accommodation.

NAU Advancement | Foundation engages students, alumni, parents, friends, and the broader NAU community to connect, invest, and inspire current and future Lumberjacks.

The Accountant, Senior prepares and presents financial reports to ensure an accurate reflection of the foundation's financial position. Using advanced knowledge of non-profit accounting and accounting systems, the position will recommend new accounting and fiscal control policies to improve department performance and increase efficiency. The Accountant, Senior will research and respond to inquiries regarding foundation policies and procedures and work with the foundation controller to maintain or develop new policies and procedures.

The position will also be responsible for account reconciliations, monthly journal entries, and other periodic tasks. The Accountant, Senior coordinates and provides guidance to lower-level employees to promote clarity within the unit. This position demonstrates knowledge and understanding of non-profit financial accounting.

• Research transaction history of fund balance, create appropriate reports and explain transactions to non-accounting foundation and university staff.
• Prepare, produce, and present periodic financial reports for review and analysis.
• Prepare timely account reconciliations and accounting close entries to maintain accurate financial records for the foundation.
• Review and approve journal entries, invoices and other transactions for accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with creation of annual external audit and 990 schedules.

• Research and provide guidance on how to properly account for transactions and/or processes to ensure accurate reflection of the foundation's financials.
• Provide guidance to campus partners regarding foundation policies and procedures.
• Identify, draft and/or update foundation policies and procedures to be relevant for changing business practices.

• Identify opportunities to leverage technology, develop an implementation and training plan, and work with Controller and peers to implement the plan.
• Maintain and provide oversight of data and integrity of subledger and accounting systems. For example, reviewing and analyzing gift agreements for proper system setup.

• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or bachelor's in finance or business administration with an emphasis in accounting.
• 3 years of accounting experience in progressively more advanced roles, including:
  • Experience with creation of audit schedules,
  • Experience with accounting system administration and/or implementation.

* A combination of related education, experience, and training may be used as an equivalent to the above Minimum Qualifications.

• Accounting experience in higher education.
• Accounting experience with a non-profit organization and the creation of 990 schedules.

• Advanced knowledge of accounting tools, procedures, processes, policies, and concepts, such as preparation of financial statements, account reconciliations, journal entries, invoicing, revenue receipts, and other financial documents.
• Knowledge of financial reporting in higher education.
• Knowledge of university budgeting processes.
• Knowledge of financial reporting in non-profits.

• Proficiency in…