Financial Officer, Research

at  Concordia University

Position Number: 50013500 / P7040
Department: Research and Restricted Financial Management
Grade: GR10
Campus: Sir George Williams (Downtown)
Salary: $36.35 - $43.77 per hour
Union/Association/HR Policy: CUSSU
Posting deadline: November 6, 2024
Recognized as Canada’s top university under the age of 50, and one of Montreal’s top Employers, Concordia University is the place to be if you are looking to grow, contribute and innovate in a dynamic and multicultural environment.
Be part of a community that addresses society’s big challenges, supports your personal and professional growth, and makes a real impact in building a more sustainable world.
As a member of our community, you will have access to comprehensive benefits, a defined pension plan and numerous on site well-being facilities such as a state of the art gym and health clinic as well as a variety of educational and cultural opportunities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Diploma of College Studies (three-year technical DEC), preferably in Accountancy, Commerce or a field related to the primary responsibilities and two to four years of experience in processing financial transactions, with at least one year of experience undertaking accounting functions for grants or contracts.
• Good knowledge (Intermediate level) of Excel (able to do mathematical and financial calculations), Access (able to join tables and run complex queries) and Word (able to format reports and input tables into documents).
• Good knowledge (Level 4) of spoken English and French (ability to provide detailed information/explanations and express opinions persuasively yet with sensitivity; Good knowledge (Level 4) of written English (ability to write correspondence or other texts in which detailed facts and reasons must be presented); Basic knowledge (Level 3) of written French (to write brief reports to explain or request that action be taken on work related matters).
• Prior experience using SAP is an asset.
• Knowledge of fund accounting as well as Financial, Human Resources Information and Endowment Management systems are assets.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Focus on accuracy and attention to details.
• Very good interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to work with minimal supervision and as a member of a team.
• Proven dedication to customer service.
  Due to the volume of applications, only selected candidates will be contacted by our Talent Team.
  Concordia University is an English-language institution of higher learning at which the primary language of instruction and research is English. Since this position supports academic and administrative functions of the university, proficiency in English and French, as indicated, is required.

TERRITORIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Concordia University is located on unceded Indigenous lands. The Kanien’kehá:ka Nation is recognized as the custodians of the lands and waters on which we gather today. Tiohtià:ke/Montreal is historically known as a gathering place for many First Nations. Today, it is home to a diverse population of Indigenous and other peoples. We respect the continued connections with the past, present and future in our ongoing relationships with Indigenous and other peoples within the Montreal community.

• Ensure the setting up and closing of a grant’s accounting and budgetary structures. The grant set up consists of full budgetary & billing set up for the complete life cycle of the grant. Also, inputting correct controls on spending as per the requirement of the internal or external sponsor to ensure effective financial management of the grant.
• Prepare, validate and analyze financial reports for external reporting requirements. In addition, will ensure a holistic review of the PIs global grants for optimization of expense eligibility.
• Prepare and approve journal entries, cash receipts, invoices and other grant financial requirements. Liaise with the accounts receivable team as required for collections of all invoicing. Offer support and client services to respond to financial information needs to PI’s, service departments, as well as other universities and external sponsors.
• Reconcile accounts receivable, payable and overhead, and other activities.
• Prepare audit files for grant and year-end audits.
• Reconcile and analyze deficit, surplus, budgetary variances and exceptions reports.
• Review expenses charged to research funds to ensure that University policies and funding sources requirements are respected.
• Identify areas for improvement, make recommendations to his/her supervisor, and follows up on decisions.
• Provide back-up services to other Financial Officers in Research Funds Unit.
• Update the Supervisor regarding financial management issues with respect to the research spend activities.
• Perform other tasks related to the management of research funds as well as any tasks assigned by the Supervisor.