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UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
At the University of California (UC), your contributions make a difference. A world leader producing Nobel and Pulitzer prize recipients with over 150 years of groundbreaking research transforming the world. Choose a career where you can leverage your knowledge, skills and aspirations to inspire and support some of the greatest minds in the world, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Working at the University of California is being part of a unique institution, and a vibrant and diverse community. At the University of California, Office of the President, we propel our mission through impactful work locally, in government centers and systemwide. We are passionate people, serving the greater good.
The University of California, one of the largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning in the world, is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and public service. The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, six academic medical centers and three national laboratories and enrolls premier students from California, the nation and the world.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
Under UCOP’s UC Finance Division, the UC Controller group provides numerous systemwide support functions, including financial management and reporting in connection with employee benefits, debts, federal and other extramurally funded projects, endowment funds, and campus foundations. Under the UC Controller group, the Corporate Accounting unit is responsible for UC financial accounting policy and the consolidated financial reporting under generally accepted accounting principles for campuses, medical centers, University of California Retirement System and foundations. This unit monitors and administers over $60 billion in capital assets and $25 billion in debt that supports the mission of the University. It also maintains the University’s consolidation tools and coordinates the systemwide annual fiscal close and external audit. In addition, Corporate Accounting is responsible for UC debt accounting, reporting and administration and provides technical accounting guidance on unusual/nonrecurring transactions.
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Accounting Supervisor, the Accountant 4 would be maintaining accurate accounting records for UCOP encompassing developing, implementing and monitoring accounting systems, policies and procedures.
The Accountant 4 is a technical leader with a high degree of knowledge in the overall field and recognized expertise in specific areas; problem-solving frequently requires analysis of unique issues / problems without precedent and / or structure. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy.
Uses advanced accounting concepts and organizational objectives to resolve highly complex issues. Regularly works on highly complex accounting assignments that are of diverse scope requiring analysis of identifiable factors using multiple accounting and financial sources. Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions, completing analysis and developing recommendations. Normally receives little instruction on day-to-day work, with general instructions provided on new or unique accounting assignments. Interacts with senior internal and external contacts on matters of some significance to the accounting organization.
Responsibilities
25% Capital Asset and Debt Accounting — Key player in supporting operational needs of capital asset and debt accounting functions as they roll up in monthly and annual closing requirements to the University’s consolidation tools (Oracle Financial Consolidation and Close Cloud Service and Amazon QuickSight). Prepare accounting letters for new debt issuance. Reviews mid-year asset files and reconciliations submitted by campuses. Serves as a liaison with designated group of constituents including providing ongoing advice and assistance to various Office of the President departments, campus, medical center and Foundation contacts.
20% Journal Entries and General Ledger — Prepares journal entries, maintains and reconciles complex ledger accounts. Reviews routine / recurring journal entries prepared by junior accountants in the team. Serves as a key contact for monthly and annual close activities in areas such as general ledger and other subledgers (e.g., fixed assets, project portfolio management and leases). Accounts for UCOP capitalization of assets and related transactions. Reviews UCOP depreciation related transactions and reports.
15% Special Projects — Assist in various special projects. Prepares ad hoc reports. Identifies areas of potential problems and notifies recipients to resolve problems.
10% Adjustments and Corrections — Prepares adjusting journal entries or corrections at fiscal year-end as directed. Independently prepares worksheets and completes multiple closing steps within stringent deadlines. Reviews diagnostic and footnote reports for inclusion in the University’s annual financial report. Assists in external audit of Annual Financial Reports.
20% Procedures and Policies – Develops and updates procedures and policies in response to changes in accounting requirements and new activities. Provides policy interpretation, research of transactions, accounting training and advice on accounting policy and procedures to others within the University including campuses, medical centers, and foundations. Develops, implements and maintains changes in multiple financial reporting systems. Leads in testing of transactions and system reports for financial reporting purposes.
10% GASB — Assists in developing and implementing procedural changes necessitated by new GASB (Governmental Accounting Standards Board) and other requirements. Drafts Accounting Manual Chapters to reflect changes in procedures.
Required Qualifications
| Five years progressively responsible and recent professional accounting experience in corporate accounting. |
| Experience and demonstrated in-depth knowledge of generally accepted accounting theories, principles, and practices (GAAP) as they apply to a wide variety of accounting transactions and fiscal troubleshooting; thorough knowledge of reconciliation processes, the accounting cycle, financial statements, internal controls, and GASB Statements. |
| Demonstrated ability to perform and coordinate complex accounting functions with multiple locations; skills to analyze and reconcile large volumes of financial data. |
| Problem-solving and analytical skills as demonstrated by the ability to gather relevant data, perform analysis, identify trends, and make recommendations to resolve accounting issues. |
| Demonstrated ability to analyze, translate, document, and implement new and/or revised complex accounting pronouncements issued by GASB, as well as standard accounting procedures; ability to interpret conflicting regulations and determine order of precedence in application. |
| Experience and demonstrated skills using PC based tools and online financial systems to perform transactions; monitor financial status; query and analyze financial data; and prepare management level reports; ability to use financial tools to improve processes. |
| Meticulous attention to detail as demonstrated by the ability to consistently prepare and review financial transactions, ensuring correct coding of data and discerning data anomalies with a high degree of accuracy. |
| Excellent verbal and written skills as demonstrated by the ability to articulate ideas and issues clearly, concisely, and persuasively; ability to effectively communicate complex policies and procedures. |
| Demonstrated interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients and other staff members at UCOP and campus locations, and to respond positively and proactively to customer service needs and problems. |
| Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. |
| Demonstrated organizational skills including ability to efficiently prioritize workload to meet deadlines in an environment of multiple projects and changing priorities. |
| Proficiency with MS Office Suite and other standard office applications. |
Preferred Qualifications
| Experience with Oracle Cloud Financials, Amazon Quicksight, Workiva (Wdesk), LeaseAccelerator, EZLease |
Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
License/Certifications: Certified Public Accountant (CPA) professional certification preferred.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary: $100,000 – $114,000 commensurate with experience.
Career Tracks Title: Gen Accountant 4, PSS Grade 23
Benefits: For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position may be eligible for a on site, hybrid, or remote within California work arrangement. The employee may be required to report to work onsite in Oakland, CA on a regular schedule.
HOW TO APPLY
Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.
APPLICATION REVIEW DATE
The first review date for this job is December 19, 2022. The position will be open until filled.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Background Check Process: Successful completion of a background check is required for this critical position.
Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014.
August 2021 Update: The University of California has issued a policy requiring employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID -19 before physically accessing the University location or programs. Upon hire into a UCOP position, you will be provided detailed instructions on how to comply with this policy including access to the COVID vaccination at no cost. New hires to UCOP who work onsite or will come onsite for any activities at a UCOP or other UC location must comply with this policy within 8 weeks after their start date. The policy allows for employees to request approval for an exception or deferral.
EEO STATEMENT
The University of California, Office of the President, is an Equal 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.
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