Financial Specialist - Controller's Office

Position specifics

The Penn State College of Medicine, Controller’s Office, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is seeking a Financial Specialist to support the Penn State Cancer Institute Research Team. This position plays a critical role in providing strategic research financial guidance to the Leadership, Research Manager and Department Financial Analysts while managing the post‑award accounting responsibilities for approximately 150 assigned clinical trials within a portfolio of 542 active clinical trials totaling approximately $48 million in funding.

The Financial Specialist will be responsible for the post‑award financial management of complex clinical trial accounts, including reviewing daily financial transactions, preparing and processing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and working within STAR, OnCore, Greenphire, and other University financial systems to ensure compliance with University, sponsor, and fiduciary policies and guidelines. The position will also be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial data, preparing monthly financial reports, and identifying and resolving discrepancies in a timely manner.

As a senior member of the Research Team, this individual will serve as the primary resource for complex financial questions and guidance related to Cancer Institute clinical trials. The Financial Specialist will work closely with the Research Manager to review and resolve complex financial issues, develop and improve post‑award accounting processes, and help establish efficient workflows as the Cancer Institute continues its efforts toward National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation.

This position will play a key role in identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiencies, strengthen internal controls, and enhance financial stewardship across the research portfolio.

Additional responsibilities include performing advanced financial analysis and reconciliation of complex accounting records; interpreting financial results; researching and resolving accounting issues; and developing accounting procedures that promote accurate, compliant, and efficient financial operations. The successful candidate will also provide accounting support, guidance, and training to College of Medicine and Penn State Health financial staff, respond to inquiries regarding financial operations, accounting procedures, and University policies, and collaborate with the Funds Management Accountant (FMA) to prepare financial data and supporting schedules for College of Medicine Leadership.

This position requires the ability to independently manage a complex portfolio of clinical trial accounts while maintaining a high level of accuracy, organization, customer service, and compliance with sponsor and University requirements.

This position offers significant remote work opportunities; however, occasional on‑site work is required based on operational needs and to attend meetings. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Bachelor’s Degree; 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Required

Certifications:

None.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 – $94,980.00. Salary Structure – Information on Penn State’s salary structure. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.

One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit the Benefits Page.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to…