Foreign National Specialist

American University•Washington, DC

2d•$70,000 - $77,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Foreign National Specialist supports American University’s compliance with U.S. and international tax regulations by overseeing payroll taxation and reporting related to foreign national employees, students, and visitors. The position interprets tax laws and treaties, advises university departments and individuals, maintains tax compliance data systems, and ensures accurate withholding and documentation. It collaborates with university departments and external partners to minimize tax risks and support institutional integrity. The role is full-time, exempt, and works 35 hours per week. It is hybrid, with 3–4 days per week on campus. Employees must provide services from the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or work on-site at the university. Hiring offers are contingent on successfully completing a background check.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree.
3–5 years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

4–6 years of relevant experience.
Experience in higher education or nonprofit organizations.
Proficiency with systems such as Glacier and ADP.

Responsibilities

Meet with foreign national faculty, staff, students, and visitors to complete I-9 verification and set them up in Workday according to IRS regulations, tax residency status, and treaty eligibility; collect, review, and maintain required documentation.
Research, interpret, and apply U.S. federal tax laws, IRS regulations, tax treaties, and other guidance related to foreign nationals; evaluate individual tax circumstances, determine withholding requirements, and provide compliance guidance.
Determine the taxability of payments to foreign nationals processed through Accounts Payable, Payroll, and student scholarship accounts; coordinate withholding and ensure accurate preparation and reporting of Forms 1042-S and other required tax documents.
Maintain the Glacier tax compliance database, including accurate foreign national information, visa status, substantial presence test results, and taxable or nontaxable payments; monitor data accuracy and maintain supporting documentation.
Support year-end tax processing, reporting, reconciliations, and internal and external audits; review records and payment information, investigate discrepancies, and help resolve reporting and withholding issues.
Participate in special projects and continuous improvement efforts.
Conduct educational workshops for university units and departments, respond to inquiries, explain tax requirements, and assist with resolving issues.
Identify opportunities to improve workflows, documentation, tracking systems, and tax compliance processes.