Senior Accountant – Hybrid, Programs & Compliance

Job Title

Accountant III

Hybrid work; requires residency in Iowa by start of employment.

The Controller’s Department at Iowa State University is seeking qualified candidates for two Accountant III positions. One role is dedicated to Sponsored Programs Accounting, managing the fiscal requirements of assigned contracts and grants. The second role is split between Sponsored Programs Accounting and Financial Accounting & Compliance, working half‑time in each area to manage fee‑for‑service accounts, rates, and compliance.

• Invoice sponsors, follow up, and collect delinquent accounts receivable.
• File fiscal reports and other required reports by specified deadlines.
• Monitor accounts, document cost share, and review new contracts and grants for applicable fiscal requirements.
• Provide support to researchers and departmental staff, advising on federal and state regulations and university policies.
• Research questions and negotiate solutions; lead special projects as needed.

• Review yearly fee‑for‑service rates for active accounts and assist departments during rate reviews.
• Analyze financial data, evaluate cost‑recovery methodologies, and ensure compliance with ISU policy.
• Assist with review, approval, and closeout of fee‑for‑service accounts.
• Advise departments on financial and compliance matters, review financial risk, and exercise professional judgment.

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of related experience.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, strong organization and time‑management abilities.
• Ability to comprehend and explain legal documents and regulations.
• Team‑player mindset with a customer‑service orientation; excellent presentation skills for training seminars.
• Good understanding of cost‑allowability guidelines, OMB Circulars 2
  
  CFR
  200 (Uniform Guidance), and federal sponsored award terms and conditions.

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, Research Administration or related field.
• Experience with sponsored programs and fee‑for‑service accounting.
• Experience at a higher‑education institute or federal/state entity.
• Workday experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.
• Background in an accounting or finance environment.

• Health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement benefits (defined benefit and defined contribution plans).
• Paid vacation, holiday, sick time, and leave.
• On‑site childcare (Ames, Iowa).
• Life insurance and long‑term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing program.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. All offers of employment are contingent upon the verification of credentials and any required background checks.