JOB DESCRIPTION

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.
UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.
Finance, Planning, and Budgeting (FPB) has an outstanding opportunity for a Senior Accountant to join their team.
The Senior Accountant will play a key role in strengthening financial operations, driving process improvements, and supporting the University’s mission through high-impact work in University Business Services. This position is responsible for auditing and mapping the Chart of Accounts, leading complex reconciliations, and designing streamlined accounting processes that support both compliance and operational effectiveness.

The Senior Accountant provides direct financial and operational support across the University Business Services (UBS) portfolio, which includes:

• Procurement (Academy)
• Student Fiscal Services (SFS)
• Office of Merchant Services (OMS)
• Equipment Inventory Office (EIO)
• Travel Services
• Tax Office
• Payroll
• Creative Communications (C2 Printing & Mailing)

This is a highly collaborative role, working in close partnership with UBS leadership, the University Controller’s Office, and other key financial stakeholders across the institution.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or equivalent certification preferred
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with demonstrated expertise in chart of accounts mapping, reconciliation, and process development
  Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, with familiarity in GASB standards and NACUBO financial reporting guidance preferred
• Advanced proficiency with accounting software and ERP systems (e.g., Workday, Oracle, or SAP)
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

DESIRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Experience with financial system implementations or upgrades
• Experience in a higher education or public sector environment
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Familiarity with fund accounting, tuition/fee structures, or auxiliary operations
• Ability to interpret accounting guidance in operational contexts (e.g., GASB/NACUBO compliance for non-exchange transactions, tuition discounting, etc.)

Chart of Accounts Mapping

• Lead a comprehensive audit and mapping of the current Chart of Accounts structure across University Business Services (UBS) departments
• Identify gaps, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment with operational needs, business objectives, and regulatory requirements

Account Reconciliation

• Partner with the University Controller’s Office to develop comprehensive ledger mapping for each UBS department
• Evaluate and audit existing reconciliation processes, identifying compliance gaps or inefficiencies
• Implement improved reconciliation procedures in coordination with unit leadership

Process Development & Optimization

• Design, document, and enhance accounting processes to improve efficiency and compliance
• Establish and maintain internal controls, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and best practices
• Drive continuous improvement through regular process reviews and updates

Collaboration & Training

• Work closely with UBS leadership to deliver training on new processes and reconciliation practices
• Develop standardized protocols, templates, and documentation to promote consistency and accountability across departments
• Serve as a resource and advisor to departmental staff on financial best practices

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure all accounting practices adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, as well as institutional policies
• Monitor compliance requirements and implement proactive measures to mitigate risks