Campus News

Rockford University is seeking applications for a Staff Accountant within the Business Office department. Directly reporting to the Controller, the Staff Accountant prepares & supports complex financial reporting including audited financial statements, Board of Trustee reports, and internal management reports. This position answers policy and procedure questions for campus customers regarding general accounting, reporting, chart of accounts and other accounting and control related issues.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepares, reviews and ensures the accuracy of all account reconciliations through monthly analysis and reconciliation of assigned balance sheet accounts.
• Prepares monthly journal entry postings and account activity analyses.
• Ensures electronic interfaces from “feeder” systems are performing with maximum efficiency.
• Responsible for processing and monitoring outstanding auxiliary accounts receivable.
• Prepares monthly and annual financial statements, schedules, reports requested by users, and reports for regulatory agencies.
• Maintains balances for restricted funds and communicates with various departments regarding their fund balances.
• Responsible for overseeing the University’s vehicles through Element Fleet.
• Acts as a backup for Accounts Payable.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and the ability to interpret and apply advanced and complex accounting rules.
• Thorough knowledge of financial transactions and financial systems, as well as related policy, accounting and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Advanced proficiency in business applications, such as Microsoft Office; advanced Excel skills.
• Experience in developing reports in report writing software, developing forecasting tools, management level reports, operation reports, and other complex institutional reports that encompass multiple elements from various sources.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex requirements/regulations to non-finance staff.
• Excellent customer service skills and proven ability to develop and sustain productive customer relationships
• Willingness to take initiative, prioritize and perform proactively the assigned duties of the position.
• Possess strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Works accurately with great attention to detail.
• Experience using automated general ledger/accounting systems.
• Ability to work extended hours during peak business cycles.

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Accounting or related degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of five years accounting experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• CPA professional certification preferred.
• Experience working within a higher education environment
• Public Accounting experience.

To apply:

Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $55,000-$60,000.

Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way

We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
• Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
• Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.
• Retirement Security: 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future.
• Personal Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs.
• Education Benefits: Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones including 16 paid holidays and 3 weeks vacation.

At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission.