Senior Financial Reporting Specialist

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

9d•$29 - $33•Hybrid

About The Position

The Ashley School of Global Development is seeking a Senior Financial Reporting Specialist to join their finance team. This position plays a key role in supporting faculty and advancing the school's research mission by providing expert financial and post-award research administration. The successful candidate will partner with faculty, staff, and university offices to manage sponsored research awards, ensure compliance with sponsor and university policies, and provide financial guidance throughout the lifecycle of research projects. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, building strong working relationships, and supporting a dynamic academic environment.

Requirements

2 years college coursework, or Associate’s Degree or other formal four-years and less than 6 years’ experience in finance, business administration, organizational development, or related field. 2 years, but less than 3 years of experience or equivalent combination.
Experience with computer applications Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, FileMaker
Attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills are critical. Able to work quickly and effectively under pressure.
Ability to use judgment in accomplishing tasks that are urgent or of a sensitive nature while successfully balancing conflicting priorities, while consistently maintaining confidentiality.
Aptitude to work in an environment where change in processes/procedures is the norm.
Excellent customer service skills and demonstrated ability to communicate both orally and in writing with a broad range of internal and external customers is essential.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrated history of reliability.
Experience that demonstrates sound judgment and creativity.
Experience working independently while supporting the efforts and successfully collaborate with an overall team
Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
Ability to serve as an advocate for individuals of all ethnicities, genders, ages, and backgrounds.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

At least 4 years concentrated experience in a financial office setting.
Strong working knowledge of Cornell contract budgeting and accounting policies and practices; grant and contract management; financial policies and procedures.
Proficient in use of Cornell administrative and financial computer applications such as Kuali Financial System, IDR dashboards, and Workday.

Responsibilities

Provide financial and research administration support to faculty and the Finance Manager.
Manage post-award sponsored research administration, including account setup and closeout.
Monitor grant expenditures, salary planning, effort distribution, cost sharing, and subcontract administration.
Ensure compliance with sponsor requirements and university policies.
Serve as a liaison with the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) and Sponsored Fund Services (SFS).
Provide guidance and support to Financial Reporting Specialists within the Ashley School.
Collaborate with the University Shared Service Center (SSC) to improve financial processes and deliver exceptional faculty support.
Partner with the Graduate Field Assistant (GFA) to monitor graduate student funding and appointments.
Work with the Chair's Assistant, HR Coordinator, and Onboarding Coordinator to confirm funding sources for faculty, staff, and temporary appointments.
Participate in finance team meetings to identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices.
Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain expertise in research administration and financial management.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options
Generous retirement contributions
Access to wellness programs
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
Health and personal leave
Three weeks of vacation
13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
Two additional floating holidays
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
Tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program