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University of California Santa Cruz

Research Accountant

University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, us, 95061


Research Accountant

Location:

Santa CruzJob ID:

70678

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Research Accounting Manager, the Research Accountant is responsible for the budgetary and financial management and administration of extramural contracts, grants, cooperative agreements and gifts from a wide variety of funding sources and all university generated research funds and cost share commitments for the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences. The Research Accountant proactively manages a portion of the Physical and Biological Sciences Division's approximately 1400 research awards from over 175 distinct funding agencies, for an estimated 300 principal investigators totaling approximately $90 million annually in extramural awards.

The Research Accountant provides input in developing processes for the Division, and provides budgetary analysis and innovative solutions to diverse types of problems and situations by applying university, state, federal, and private sector policies and procedures. The Research Accountant also ensures that costs to a research fund are reasonable, allowable and allocable under all cost principles.

JOB DUTIES

35% - Post-Award Administration

Provide post-award financial administration and management for extramural funds by analyzing and applying complex granting agency and UC guidelines to ensure proper usage of funds, prevent fund overdrafts and audit disallowances.

35% - Report Preparation/Analysis

Prepare and analyze complex reports on a regular basis; consult with PIs as necessary to interpret/explain reports and assist PI in maintaining proper financial stability on funding sources. Prepare ad hoc reports as needed to meet PI needs or campus unit or funding agency requirements.

15% - Fiscal Management/Control

Apply professional knowledge and experience to prepare, review and approve financial transactions.

5% - Collaborative Fund Administration

Collaborate with PIs and various campus offices (e.g. Office of Sponsored Projects, Accounting, Departments, Graduate Division, etc.) to ensure proper administration of grants and contracts.

5% - Award Review/Analysis

Ensure grants are processed and allocated correctly according to award documents and University policy and procedure; review award documentation for limiting and restrictive terms and conditions and advise PI accordingly.

5% - Payroll Review/Analysis

Coordinate with divisional and campus colleagues to ensure employees are paid appropriately and accurately. Consult on compensation mechanisms.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.Thorough understanding of research administration guidelines of extramural sponsors supporting research and educational activities, preferably in a university environment.Demonstrated skill in financial planning, analysis, and budgeting, with proven skills to interpret and apply complex university, state and federal regulations as they pertain to research administration.Strong negotiating and decision-making skills.Ability to communicate clearly, verbally and in writing. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with a wide variety of individuals at various levels.Demonstrated ability to analyze problems and develop or collaborate on innovative solutions.Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize a heavy workload with the pressure of deadlines and constant interruptions.Ability to function independently, be resourceful, and follow through on assignments with minimal direction.Ability to use discretion and good judgment when handling confidential information.Demonstrated competence in the use of spreadsheet and database software in financial analysis, fiscal management and financial reports.Ability to manage a significant volume of transactions.Ability to learn campus-specific systems related to finance, purchasing, and reports.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSExperience using campus financial system (Banner/FIS), campus payroll/personnel software's inquiry module (UCPath), UCSC purchasing system (CruzBuy) and campus Data Warehouse systems (InfoView).

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENTSelected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation.Ability to perform essential physical job functions.Will be required to work a hybrid work schedule, days of the week and number of days to be determined, and be able to fulfill requirements of the UCSC telecommuting agreement.Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.Ability to maintain appearance and conduct suitable for working in a professional setting.The University of California has implemented a COVID-19 Vaccination Policy covering all employees. To be compliant with the policy, covered employees must submit proof of vaccination or have an approved exception or deferral, eight (8) weeks from date of hire.Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained

here .

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. UC Santa Cruz is committed to excellence through diversity and strives to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.#J-18808-Ljbffr