Bursar

Stanbridge University•Irvine, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Stanbridge University is seeking a detail-oriented, analytical, and highly organized Bursar to manage daily student financial operations, including tuition billing, student accounts, payment processing, accounts receivable, reconciliations, and collections. The position requires strong accounting fundamentals, sound judgment, financial accuracy, and the ability to balance operational responsibilities with responsive student service. The Bursar collaborates with Accounting, Financial Aid, Admissions, and other university departments to maintain accurate student financial records, resolve account issues, and support efficient financial operations. This is a hands-on role emphasizing accountability, independent judgment, and operational excellence rather than traditional staff management. The position is full-time and requires onsite attendance at Stanbridge University's Irvine campus. Hybrid and remote work arrangements are not available. The standard work environment may include an office, classroom, lab, or clinical setting, though duties are typically performed while sitting at a desk or computer workstation.

Requirements

Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
At least three years of experience in accounts receivable, billing, accounting, student accounts, or related financial operations.
Demonstrated experience with account reconciliation, payment processing, financial transactions, and discrepancy resolution.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience using accounting or financial management software.
Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to independently investigate financial discrepancies, evaluate information, and determine appropriate solutions.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a professional, student-centered approach to customer service.
Ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion, accuracy, and professionalism.
Ability to be physically present in the office and perform the essential duties satisfactorily.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; the university does not provide employment-based immigration sponsorship.
Successful completion of a background check is required for employment.
Official transcripts are required before hire.
Degrees earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service for U.S. degree equivalency and applicable subject-area coursework.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Previous experience in higher education, student accounts, or a bursar's office.
Experience with tuition billing, student refunds, financial aid disbursements, and payment arrangements.
Familiarity with student information systems, enterprise accounting platforms, or student account management software.
Experience with accounts receivable aging reports, collections, and financial reporting.
Knowledge of FERPA, Title IV financial aid processes, and applicable higher education financial regulations.
Demonstrated experience identifying inefficiencies and implementing improvements to financial processes.

Responsibilities

Manage and maintain student accounts, including tuition charges, fees, payments, adjustments, refunds, and outstanding balances.
Process tuition billing, student payments, account adjustments, and refunds in accordance with university policies and deadlines.
Review account activity, identify discrepancies, investigate inconsistencies, and resolve billing or payment issues.
Respond to student inquiries about tuition, account balances, payment arrangements, and financial obligations.
Coordinate student account activities related to enrollment changes, withdrawals, leaves of absence, and graduation.
Monitor accounts receivable, identify past-due accounts, and conduct timely collection follow-up.
Reconcile student account transactions, payment records, and financial reports to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Research transaction histories, investigate discrepancies, and implement appropriate corrections.
Coordinate with Accounting and Financial Aid to ensure accurate posting of payments, financial aid disbursements, and refunds.
Prepare and maintain reconciliations, financial reports, and supporting documentation.
Assist with month-end closing activities, audits, and financial reporting requirements.
Analyze account activity to identify discrepancies, unusual transactions, and potential financial risks.
Independently investigate complex account issues, determine root causes, and recommend solutions.
Identify recurring billing, payment, or reconciliation issues and recommend process improvements.
Exercise sound judgment when resolving discrepancies and determine when matters require escalation.
Maintain accurate documentation of transactions, account adjustments, and issue resolution.
Provide professional, responsive, solutions-oriented service to students regarding financial matters.
Communicate account balances, payment requirements, and financial policies clearly and accurately.
Collaborate with Financial Aid, Admissions, Accounting, and other departments to resolve student account issues.
Support timely communication about outstanding balances, payment deadlines, and account requirements.
Maintain professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality when handling sensitive student financial information.
Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with university policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
Follow internal controls, financial procedures, and cash-handling practices.
Support compliance with student financial regulations, including relevant Title IV requirements.
Assist with internal and external audits by preparing records, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, financial accuracy, and student account processes.
Manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain accountability for assigned responsibilities.