Senior Accountant (Temporary)

Vanguard University Of So Cal•Costa Mesa, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Accountant provides senior-level accounting support within Fiscal Management and Accounting Operations, with primary responsibility for the accurate and timely preparation of the University's monthly financial statements and related financial reports. This position performs complex accounting activities, supports financial reporting and reconciliation processes, and serves as a key accounting resource for the department. The Senior Accountant reports directly to the Controller.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field with a significant emphasis in accounting.
Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including experience with general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, month-end close, and financial reporting.
Strong knowledge of current Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively with minimal supervision.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and accounting skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and build strong working relationships with colleagues across departments.
Ability to maintain professional relationships with faculty, staff, and other stakeholders.
Knowledge and acceptance of the mission and principles of Vanguard University.

Nice To Haves

Three or more years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Experience preparing financial statements and supporting month-end and year-end close processes.
Experience working with external auditors and supporting annual financial audits.
Experience in higher education or nonprofit accounting.
Experience with Ellucian Colleague or a comparable ERP/accounting system.
CPA or CPA candidate preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare monthly GAAP financial statements and summary analyses, communicating findings to the Controller.
Champion the month-end closing process.
Review and approve monthly reconciliations of general ledger accounts.
Oversee and approve reconciliations of other departments' activities and general ledger postings, including Advancement, Financial Aid, Conferencing, and Grants.
Work with other departments across campus to ensure appropriate processes are followed in accounting for fixed assets.
Review and approve journal entries prepared by Fiscal and Accounting Operations staff.
Review weekly check runs for accuracy and appropriate approvals.
Support the review of purchase orders.
Champion the accounting of receivables.
Manage the interface between various computer systems for accounting, payroll, and other external systems.
Collaborate directly with auditors on annual external audits.
Assist the Controller with the preparation of annual tax returns for the University and Foundation (Form 990, 990-T, etc.).
Ensure compliance with University policies and procedures.
Perform related duties as assigned by the Controller.