Business Administrator III - Procurement

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

35d

About The Position

Iowa State University's Procurement Services unit is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Business Administrator III to support efficient, compliant, and customer-focused procurement operations across the university. This position plays a critical role in financial management, operational oversight, and the coordination of key departmental processes that ensure smooth and effective daily operations. The Business Administrator supports a broad range of financial and operational activities, including developing and monitoring budgets, reconciling complex financial accounts, tracking supplier rebates and technology fees, and partnering with Finance and the Treasurer's Office. The role also manages departmental assets and equipment, oversees sponsored email accounts and permit renewals, assists with space and building-related needs, supports Open Records processes, and ensures smooth onboarding for new employees and student workers. Success in this position requires strong analytical abilities, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. If you thrive on variety and enjoy a role where your responsibilities span financial analysis, operational coordination, and employee support, you'll find this position both engaging and rewarding. You will join a strong, collaborative team that values professionalism, continuous learning, and mutual support. Procurement Services offers excellent work-life balance, flexibility in how work gets done, and a culture that prioritizes growth and development. You will be encouraged to pursue opportunities that expand your skills, including relevant conferences, webinars, and training that enhance your expertise. Join us and take part in work that is both meaningful and deeply valued across campus. Please provide a cover letter describing your experience related to the duties of this role. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and 5 years of related experience

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a closely related field.
Experience with budgeting, financial reconciliation, or financial analysis in a higher education, governmental, or similarly complex organizational environment.
Background with procurement processes, supplier management, or accounts payable practices.
Demonstrated experience preparing journal entries, managing worktags/cost centers, or working within enterprise financial systems (e.g., Workday).
Experience overseeing operational processes such as equipment inventory, asset disposition, permit renewals, or space/facility coordination.

Responsibilities

Reconciling departmental accounts and ensuring budget accuracy.
Reviewing supplier payment files, investigating discrepancies, and coordinating with banking partners on corrections or resubmissions.
Recording cash sales from rebates and payments.
Preparing journal entries and adjustments, including determining when new worktags are needed.
Reconciling credit card clearing accounts totaling several million dollars.
Recording annual credit card rebates and reconciling gift card payments and credits.
Managing financial projects and reporting that support budget decisions and future planning.
Providing financial analysis to support decisions related to budgets, salary increases, and technology renewals.
Monitoring financial and operational systems and verifying expenditures for accuracy and compliance.
Coordinating the disposition of surplus equipment, furniture, and other assets.
Coordinating onboarding for new employees, including system and building access.
Assisting with student hiring and onboarding processes.

Benefits

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.