Senior Accountant, Accruals & Expenses

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here Is What We Offer Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Job Purpose The Senior Accountant, Accruals & Expenses, plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of Howard University’s expense related financial activities. This position is responsible for reviewing the accounting worktags on invoices, requisitions and other spending; preparing monthly expense accrual entries; analyzing prepaid expenses, expense activity, and reconciling the related general ledger accounts. The Senior Accountant partners with Procurement, Accounts Payable, Capital Projects, Budgets and departmental administrators to ensure that expenses are properly recorded in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), University policy, and internal control standards. The role requires strong analytical capabilities, excellent problem-solving skills, sound accounting judgment, and the ability to interpret contracts and operational data to determine proper accounting treatment. The Senior Accountant will also support the monthly, quarterly, and annual close and audit processes. Supervisory Authority None. Nature And Scope Internal contacts include staff within the Controller’s Office, Procurement, Accounts Payable, Budget Office, and departmental administrators, and other departments within the university. External contacts include auditors and consultants. Accruals and Expense Accounting Review the accounting worktags on new invoices, requisitions and other spending to ensure accurate accounting classification and adequate supporting documentation. Prepare monthly accrual entries across administrative and academic units, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP and University guidelines. Maintain detailed accrual schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation. Analyze expense trends and variances, propose journal entries, and ensure completeness and accuracy of liabilities. Assist with expense-related budget vs. actual reviews for the Controller’s Office and institutional departments. Prepaid Expense Accounting Prepare and record prepaid expenses and monthly amortization schedules. Maintain and reconcile prepaid expense ledgers for accuracy and completeness. Ensure prepaid transactions comply with the University's capitalization and expense recognition policies. General Ledger & Monthly Close Prepare journal entries, reconciliations, roll-forward schedules, and supporting analytics for monthly close. Perform account analyses to identify errors, omissions, or inconsistencies, recommending corrective actions where needed. Support the preparation of quarterly and annual financial reporting focused on accruals, expenses, and liabilities (i.e., variance analysis). Assist with expense recognition assessments, ensuring appropriate accounting treatment. Contract & Policy Review Review contracts, agreements, purchase orders, and vendor documentation to interpret accounting implications. Conduct accounting research and prepare clear, concise technical memos documenting decisions in accordance with GAAP/FASB. Ensure adherence to university accounting policies, procurement policies, and applicable regulatory requirements. Internal Controls, Compliance & Audit Support Ensure accuracy, proper approvals, documentation, and compliance across all expense-related transactions. Support internal and external audit requests by preparing reconciliations, schedules, and explanations. Help identify gaps in internal controls and suggest improvements to enhance financial accuracy and efficiency. Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support Partner with Accounts Payable, Procurement, Capital Projects, Budget, and operational departments to support efficient financial processes. When needed, provide guidance to departments on proper accounting practices, expense classification, and policy interpretation. Assist the Accounting Manager and Assistant Director with special analyses, process improvements, and system initiatives (including Workday enhancements). Other Duties Perform critical self-review of work to ensure high quality and accuracy. Support various special projects and other responsibilities as assigned by management. Core Competencies Strong understanding of GAAP (including accrual accounting and expense recognition). Experience with expense accounting, accruals, reconciliations, and monthly close processes. Proficiency with ERP systems (Workday is a plus). Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (vlookups, pivot tables, data analysis, macros). Exceptional analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines. High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Minimum 4–6 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a complex. Experience with accounting for accruals and expenses. Workday or large ERP system experience strongly preferred. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and meet strict deadlines. Compliance Salary Range Disclosure $105,000-$115,000 #J-18808-Ljbffr Inside Higher Ed