Director of Accounting

Join Milwaukee School of Engineering as our Director of Accounting , where operational leadership meets hands‑on financial excellence. In this pivotal role, you will drive the integrity, accuracy, and efficiency of the institution’s financial operations and compliance processes; be a trusted partner to academic and administrative leaders; and lead a passionate and dedicated accounting team. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine hands‑on technical expertise with collaboration and leadership. If you thrive in a mission‑driven environment and are passionate about improving processes, supporting institutional success, and driving and developing your team, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Who We Are Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) is an academic institution intrinsically tied to the real world – a confluence of industry knowledge, work ethic and an enduring desire to know more. The university offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering, computer science, machine learning, user experience, construction management, actuarial science, business and nursing. With about 3,000 students, faculty and staff, MSOE is large enough for big opportunities and small enough for personal attention. A Small University Dedicated to Achieving Big Things MSOE is a supportive environment where everyone is valued. Our method of learning by doing is our distinction: it is how we teach, how we learn and how we serve. MSOE’s top priority is serving our students. By joining our community, you are building the leaders of tomorrow. Our Mission MSOE is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. We are united by our six values – collaboration, excellence, inclusion, innovation, integrity and stewardship – which represent the core of our campus culture. MSOE has embarked on an ambitious strategic plan, Extraordinary Together, that propels the institution forward. At MSOE, we are dedicated to promoting an academic environment marked by an unwavering respect for every individual. MSOE is under the leadership of Dr. Eric Baumgartner. He began his Presidency in January 2026 after having served as the Executive Vice President of Academics at MSOE since 2017. Summary MSOE invites applications for a full‑time Director of Accounting to join our Finance team! The Director of Accounting leads accounting, financial operations, and financial reporting for the university. The Director serves as the liaison to academic and staff department leaders to analyze and interpret financial health while also driving operational efficiency and financial integrity through the leadership of the accounting function and staff. Essential Job Functions Manage accounting, close processes, and financial reporting, including all supporting reconciliations and analyses. Manage all aspects of the general ledger. Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with GAAP and research/resolve accounting issues. Manage financial operations including banking, accounts payable, and post‑grant accounting and administration. Facilitate information flow by working collaboratively with other university departments. Recommend accounting and financial reporting improvements to use systems effectively and efficiently while maintaining a high level of accuracy and strong internal controls. Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices in accounting operations. Develop, implement, document, and maintain policies and procedures for accounting, reporting, and financial operations. Maintain the accounting and financial operations system including set‑up, testing, reporting, and assisting with issue resolution. Develop an understanding of related systems. Plan and manage external financial audits. Serve as the primary liaison to the external audit team and act as their point of contact with others across campus. Ensure required information, schedules, and financials are provided timely and accurately. Be proactive by engaging auditors on new initiatives, accounting, and policy changes. Stay current and comply with A‑133 audit requirements. Plan and manage the preparation of the annual 990, 990‑T, and other tax returns with the external tax provider. Ensure required information is provided timely and accurately and understood by the tax provider. Review, obtain approval, and file tax returns. Develop and lead a high‑performing team, including recruiting, training, and management. Develop and monitor organizational and individual goals and objectives. Contribute to employee professional development. Other Duties and Responsibilities Prepare various financial statements and reports required for regulatory agencies and others, both internal and external to the University, i.e. Higher Learning Commission, IPED’s Department of Education, etc. Assist with debt compliance and S&P rating presentation. This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in accounting required. 5+ years of broad‑based accounting experience required. Experience in supervising accounting and clerical staff required. Higher education and/or not‑for‑profit accounting experience preferred. Extensive knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and analysis. Must have experience in the preparation of complicated financial reports, such as cash flow statements and ratio analysis. Experience leading the development and implementation of new processes. Proficient with accounting ERP systems and Microsoft products. Why Join MSOE? At MSOE, we invest in our employees’ professional and personal growth. MSOE offers competitive, fully comprehensive benefit plans to all full‑time employees including medical, dental, life, disability and vision insurance, 13 paid holidays, Paid Time Off, and paid parental leave, as well as a 403(b) retirement plan with company matching of up to 6% of employee earnings and immediate vesting. Educational benefits are available for employees and family members. Plus, employees have access to our state‑of‑the‑art fitness center at no charge. Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, MSOE is just blocks away from the beautiful lakefront, the theater district, museums, sports and music venues, parks and shopping. To view more detailed information about MSOE, please visit The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principle functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. It is the policy of MSOE to provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic characteristics, marital status or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law. This policy applies to all jobs at the University and to all the terms, benefits, and conditions of employment/enrollment. #J-18808-Ljbffr