Accounting Specialist

Cornell College • Mt Vernon, IA

7d • $20 - $23 • Onsite

About The Position

Cornell College invites applications for a full-time Accounting Specialist. The specialist supports the daily financial operations of the College by performing entry-level accounting and transactional duties across key functional areas, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, student accounts, and general ledger support. This position plays a critical role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with institutional policies, and excellent customer service to students, faculty, staff, and external partners. About Cornell College Cornell College is a selective liberal arts college distinguished by our Ingenuity curriculum that builds on the strengths of our One Course At A Time schedule. This combination encourages the qualities of being thoughtful, original, and inventive, using the strengths of a liberal arts education to apply ideas to solve problems and meet challenges through hands-on experience in learning. Academic immersion, Division III NCAA athletic teams, and unparalleled flexibility attract an ambitious student body from across the U.S. and worldwide. We are located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, an urban fringe community located in the heart of the ICR Iowa region.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Basic understanding of accounting principles (GAAP)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and general computer applications
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Strong communication and customer service skills

Responsibilities

• Accounts Payable & Disbursements Process vendor invoices in accordance with College procurement policies and approval workflows
• Verify appropriate documentation, coding, and authorization before payment
• Assist with weekly check runs, ACH, and electronic payments
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9 collection and 1099 tracking
• General Ledger & Financial Support Prepare and post basic journal entries with appropriate supporting documentation
• Assist with monthly account reconciliations and variance review
• Support the month-end and year-end close processes
• Maintain organized financial records in accordance with audit standards
• Compliance & Internal Controls Ensure transactions comply with institutional policies, internal controls, and applicable regulations (e.g., federal funding guidelines, IRS reporting requirements)
• Assist with audit requests and documentation preparation
• Maintain confidentiality of financial and student information
• Customer Service & Administrative Support Serve as a front-line resource for Accounts Payable inquiries (in person, phone, email)
• Provide clear and professional communication regarding financial processes and policies
• Collaborate with campus departments to resolve issues and improve processes
• Other Duties as Assigned Assist as needed in the absence of Business Service Staff
• Complete Special Financial Projects

Benefits

• Cornell College offers a fantastic benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, HSA & FSA accounts, a TIAA 403(b) retirement account, and tuition remission and exchange for employees and dependents. We also offer life insurance, disability insurance, travel insurance, and accident insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree