Senior Accountant

Western Governors University•Salt Lake, UT

30d•$73,000 - $109,400•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Accountant will manage complex accounting tasks, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial statements and reports. They will prepare and analyze general ledger entries, reconcile accounts, oversee fixed asset management, and assist with audits, all while ensuring compliance with GAAP. Additionally, the Senior Accountant will support financial planning and process improvements and contribute to the overall financial health of the university. The Senior Accountant is a key individual contributor who applies strong accounting judgment, supports audits and reporting, and contributes to continuous improvement of accounting processes.

Requirements

Strong understanding of accounting principles, practices, and procedures.
Ability to apply accounting judgment to complex or non‑routine issues.
High attention to detail with strong organizational and analytical skills.
Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience working with financial systems and data.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain accounting concepts to non‑accounting partners.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
Demonstrated ability to identify issues, recommend solutions, and support process improvements.
Commitment to accuracy, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
3–5 years of progressive experience in an accounting or finance function.
Equivalent relevant experience performing the essential functions of the role may be considered in lieu of a degree at the discretion of the hiring manager.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification or CPA‑eligible.
Experience supporting audits and complex reconciliations.
Experience providing guidance or mentoring to peers (without formal supervisory responsibility).

Responsibilities

Prepare and record journal entries, including daily bank activity and other routine and non‑routine transactions.
Assist with preparing and recording investment‑related entries, as applicable.
Perform monthly, quarterly, and fiscal year‑end close activities, including preparation and posting of general ledger entries.
Reconcile general ledger and subsidiary accounts on a monthly basis; research and resolve discrepancies.
Analyze account activity and financial trends to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Maintain and reconcile subsidiary ledgers by verifying, allocating, posting, and reconciling transactions.
Support effective internal controls by following established procedures and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and related reports.
Provide technical accounting guidance and support to staff and cross‑functional partners.
Research accounting issues and apply professional judgment to daily and non‑routine matters.
Support audit preparation and execution, including documentation and auditor requests.
Maintain accurate, complete, and up‑to-date accounting records and documentation.
Serve as backup for other accounting functions as needed to ensure continuity of operations.
Support special projects and process improvement initiatives as assigned by accounting leadership.
Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare: medical, dental, vision, telehealth, and mental health support
HSA and FSA options
Life and disability insurance, with optional accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage
Legal assistance and identity protection
Retirement savings plan
Wellbeing programs
Discounted WGU tuition for you and your family
Flexible PTO and Sick time — no accrual required
11 paid holidays
Additional paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave