Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Performs a variety of accounting duties that range in level of complexity from clerical accounting duties such as managing receivables or serving as payroll reporter, to more complex duties such as preparing budget or reconciling accounts. 

Qualifications

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field, plus two years full-time clerical accounting experience or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); the ability to understand, interpret, and apply University and departmental regulations, demonstrated spreadsheet skills; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills.

Experience using software programs such as PeopleSoft or Kronos may be required for certain positions. 

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Maintains and reconciles accounts and makes correction to journal entries as necessary. Tracks and reports revenue and expenditures.
2. Prepares departmental or grant budgets and cost reports, and does variance analysis.
3. Reviews expense and accounting documents for accuracy and appropriate approvals and ensures transactions are charged to the correct account.
4. Handles accounts receivable for department including invoice preparation, bank deposits, aging reports, follow up on past due accounts.
5. Prepares and processes purchasing and travel documents. Solves problem with invoices and processes for payment.
6. May serve as the department payroll reporter. May track department payroll expenses and ensure labor costs are charged to correct accounts.
7. Reviews and reconciles University procurement and purchases.
8. Reconciles monthly management statements and maintains back-up documentation.
9. Creates special checks or check requests.
10. Tracks and controls department inventory.
11. May supervises and/or train accounting clerks and other clerical staff.
12. May serve as petty cash custodian for the department.
13. May purchase and maintain office supplies for department.

Problem Solving

The Accounting Specialist follows University policies and procedures and follows applicable state and IRS guidelines. The incumbent refers issues outside of policy or not covered by policy to the supervisor.

The Accounting Specialist has the authority to determine correct account numbers, and ensure correct accounting procedures are followed. The incumbent answers questions from staff and vendors on invoice status, payroll problems, etc., and must be able to meet deadlines and establish priorities.

Comments

Duties may vary somewhat depending on the Accounting Specialist's area of assignment.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. 

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.