Accounting Associate I

Virginia Tech•Blacksburg, VA

About The Position

The Accounting Associate I supports Virginia Tech’s financial operations by reviewing and processing supplier invoices, employee reimbursements, and university-related travel and nontravel expenses. The role ensures transactions are accurate, properly documented, and processed in accordance with University and State policies and procedures. The position works with University departments, suppliers, and other stakeholders to resolve transaction issues, obtain required documentation, and support timely financial processing. It also maintains financial records, provides backup support for related accounting activities, and contributes to process improvements. The successful candidate must complete a criminal conviction check.

Requirements

Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal laws and regulations related to accounts payable, travel, or financial operations.
Knowledge of accounting principles and experience applying them in a professional environment.
Experience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or comparable financial management systems to process, research, or reconcile financial transactions.
Experience using electronic procurement, purchasing, or related financial systems.
Experience working with electronic workflow, document management, or imaging technologies.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word, including using technology to organize, analyze, and communicate financial information.
Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including the ability to provide responsive, professional service and collaborate across an organization.
Ability to exercise discretion and safeguard confidential and sensitive financial information.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including researching issues, evaluating information from multiple sources, exercising sound judgment, and independently resolving financial transaction issues.
Ability to organize and prioritize multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
Adaptability and willingness to learn new technologies, processes, policies, and procedures.
Ability to pass a criminal conviction check.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and professional experience.

Responsibilities

Review and process accounting transactions for accuracy, completeness, appropriate authorization, and compliance with University and State policies and procedures.
Evaluate supporting documentation to determine whether it supports the business purpose and appropriate use of public and private funds.
Communicate with University departments, suppliers, and other stakeholders to research and resolve discrepancies, missing information, and processing issues.
Review supplier information and obtain required documentation, including IRS Form W-9, when needed for supplier setup and payment processing.
Enter, review, and maintain transaction information in university financial systems.
Manage workload and transaction priorities to support timely processing and compliance with state prompt-payment requirements and university service expectations.
Resolve routine transaction issues and escalate more complex matters when necessary.
Maintain organized and complete financial records and supporting documentation in accordance with university procedures and record-retention requirements.
Provide cross-functional and backup support for related accounting activities.
Provide responsive customer service regarding accounting processes, documentation requirements, and transaction status.
Identify opportunities to improve transaction accuracy, efficiency, consistency, and customer service.
Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the office’s operational goals.