Senior Accountant - Financial Accounting

Job Summary

Hawai`i Pacific University (HPU or the University) seeks a highly skilled, driven, and detail oriented Senior Accountant, Financial Accounting to support the University’s financial accounting and reporting functions. Reporting to the Director of Financial Accounting & Reporting, this position is responsible for the accounting, reconciliation, analysis, and reporting of the University’s fund accounting activities, investments, leases, pledges, grants, and scholarships. Additionally, this role will support the Director in other technical and/or complex accounting transactions, as applicable.

The Senior Accountant will ensure transactions are accounted for in accordance with U.S. GAAP, FASB standards, donor restrictions, and University policies. This position serves as a key contributor to the monthly and annual close processes, external audit support, financial statement preparation, and compliance reporting. The role requires strong technical accounting expertise, analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with other departments across the University.

This position is based out of our Waterfront Plaza offices located in downtown Honolulu.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field and five (5) years of progressive accounting experience; OR, in lieu of a bachelor's degree, ten (10) years of progressive accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial accounting principles
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines while maintaining a high degree of accuracy

• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and professional judgement
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or equivalent
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or similarly complex organizations
• Experience with Banner ERP or other higher education financial systems
• Knowledge of nonprofit financial reporting and FASB guidance related to contributions
• Experience supporting external audits and preparing financial statements and disclosures

• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship and relocation allowance is not available for this position.
• Must meet training and background check qualifications and compliance with campus training policies the Minors on Campus policy.
• Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU’s winter break, if necessary.
• Able to work all shifts and extended hours, as applicable
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment requiring excellent time and stress management skills.