Accounting Manager - Federal, State, & External Awards

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

32d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and experienced Accounting Manager to support the Federal, State, and External Awards Team. This full‑time position is responsible for the accounting, reconciliation, reporting, and compliance of all federal, state, private, and university financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and external award funds. The Accounting Manager provides leadership and oversight for the Federal, State, and External Awards Team and is responsible for staff supervision, project management, regulatory compliance, financial reporting and analysis, and system functionality and performance. This role requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm‑Leach‑Bliley Act (GLBA). This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• Strong accounting expertise with demonstrated ability to accurately reconcile complex accounts and resolve discrepancies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with Penn State offices, external agencies, parents and families, and students
• Proven ability to analyze financial data and implement effective solutions
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to plan, organize, delegate, and prioritize work to meet deadlines
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• High level of professionalism with the ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing staff
• Bachelor's Degree
• 8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default)
• Authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire)
• Experience processing federal financial aid programs
• Experience with complex financial operations in a higher education environment

Responsibilities

• Prepare cyclical financial reports and provide data for university financial statements, campus departments, and the Bursar Hub
• Monitor and manage campus‑based aid cash management, including year‑end close processes and the drawdown of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education
• Complete financial transactions and prepare documentation for Penn State’s Financial Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP) in collaboration with the Office of Student Aid
• Ensure ongoing compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations
• Lead and manage the Federal, State, and External Awards Team, including hiring, training, evaluating performance, and promoting exceptional customer service and policy compliance
• Ensure established standards of continuous quality improvement are met
• Provide operational and strategic direction, establish accountability, and implement improvements to existing processes, procedures, policies, and plans

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager