Research Financial Assistant

University of Waterloo•Waterloo, ON

7d•CA$61,955 - CA$77,444•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Financial Assistant will provide financial and human resource support to Principal Investigators to facilitate effective management of their research projects. The University of Waterloo creates and promotes a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.

Requirements

University degree in accounting, post-secondary accounting diploma, or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
1-2 years financial or administrative experience preferably in a post-secondary environment.
Strong computer skills including MS Office specifically Excel.
Strong decision making and critical thinking skills.
Ability to interpret policies, financial statements.
Ability to apply guidelines and procedures.
Ability to analyze financial data and present it in an appropriate format.
Strong client-service orientation with a focus on providing exceptional customer service in a team environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact professionally and effectively with diverse constituencies of the university and external partners.
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to work accurately, efficiently, and effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Ability to manage multiple demands with above average attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of University systems (Concur, Unit4, Workday, PowerBi) an asset.

Responsibilities

Ensure all expenses are eligible and comply with university and granting agency policies.
Assist faculty and staff with understanding various financial reports, financial policies/procedures, terminology, and standard accounting practices, including support for training on Power BI.
Forward financial reports (e.g., form 300’s) received from the Office of Research to PIs and obtain approval signatures by the stipulated deadline date.
Create and review journal entry transactions, including interdepartmental billings, and ensure transactions comply with the University’s policies on fund transfers, applicable tax rules, and expense transfer approvals.
Run queries; review and interpret financial data to support the management of grant funding by Principal Investigator (PI).
Submit and support the submission of online purchase requisitions for equipment funded by research grants and contracts.
Assist with resolving deficits and account transfers, working with the Office of Research, Finance, and PIs as appropriate.
Answer non-routine and complex inquiries that are specific in nature and require specialized knowledge of policies and procedures, and may require follow-up with the Office of Research.
Support PIs with budget questions for grant submissions.
Review all cover sheets and Interim Research Account requests to ensure accuracy and that OR guidelines are followed.
Manage and maintain an electronic database system (Excel spreadsheets) for all applications/proposals submitted and maintain a filing system for information regarding grants awarded.
Provide support, as needed, to Research Project/Program Managers.
Prepare reports three times/year (by term) that includes grant amount, funder, title, length, grad student support, etc. for Chairs/Director.
Assist with the processing of various research hires and terminations.
Assist with the preparation of various payroll forms.
Ensure that contract end dates do not exceed the research grant end date and prepare revised salary reallocation forms as required.
Review research staff contracts, payments, and salaries to ensure eligibility of expenses according to granting agency guidelines and requirements.
Review Graduate Research Studentships and Graduate Research Assistants payments for available funds and timeliness.
Initiate salary changes for ongoing salary for research group members, as needed.
Liaise between PIs, Academic Unit Staff, the Finance and Office of Research departments, as required.
Stay current on changes in granting agency regulations, University policies and procedures, research administration best practices, and new technology or programs.
Attend all training on new systems and procedures, and meetings as required.
Assist with the applications, award, hiring, and tracking for the Hallman Undergraduate Research Awards.
Assist with the applications and awards for the Undergraduate Experiential Travel Award.
Perform other duties as required.