What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Staff Accountant position at Texas Wesleyan University?
Texas Wesleyan University is a private, co-educational Methodist university located in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded in 1890, the university offers a wide range of courses in liberal arts, sciences, and business-related courses.
Position SummaryThe Senior Staff Accountant is responsible for monthly accounting and financial reporting related to contributions, debt, fixed assets, and net asset classifications in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The position reports to the Assistant Controller and works collaboratively with the Finance and Advancement Divisions to ensure accurate financial records, timely reporting, and compliance with university policies and standards. The Senior Staff Accountant supports sound financial management practices through detailed analysis, research, and coordination across multiple departments.
Key ResponsibilitiesEndowments and Restricted Gifts
Responsible for managing all accounting and reporting activities related to endowments, pledges, trusts, and restricted gifts. This includes reviewing supporting documentation in collaboration with the Office of Advancement to ensure that gift agreements and donor restrictions are accurately recorded. The position records daily transactions for gifts, pledges, investments, and endowments; updates Fundriver with pooled endowment investment activity; and prepares related market value reports and reconciliations. The Senior Staff Accountant also provides monthly reconciliations and financial reports for gifts, contributions, and pledges, along with endowment information needed for financial reports prepared by the Vice President of Finance. Additionally, the role oversees the release and appropriate tracking of restricted net assets.
Debt Accounting
Maintains responsibility for all accounting activities related to university debt. This includes recording debt-related transactions, updating and maintaining lease accounting schedules, and preparing debt rollforward schedules along with the associated supporting documentation to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with applicable standards.
Fixed Assets
Serves as the administrator for the University’s Sage Fixed Assets software and manages the full lifecycle of capital asset accounting. Responsibilities include reviewing invoices to determine capitalization eligibility in accordance with University policy, preparing journal entries for capital asset additions, depreciation, and construction-in-progress activity, and recording asset retirement obligations. The role also completes required IT and Capital Asset reporting for the U.S. Census Bureau and ensures that fixed asset records are accurate, complete, and properly supported.
Net Asset Reporting
Prepares net asset rollforwards and reconciles net asset classifications to support accurate financial reporting. This includes ensuring that donor restrictions, classifications, and net asset changes are properly reflected in accordance with accounting standards and university reporting requirements.
Additional Responsibilities
Assists with the University’s annual audit and monthly close processes by preparing supporting schedules, reconciliations, and required audit documentation. The position supports the preparation of schedules and materials for IRS Form 990 and contributes to the implementation of new accounting standards, policies, and procedures. The role also prepares reconciliations and reports for various asset and liability accounts, identifies and recommends opportunities for process improvement, and assists with implementing enhancements to improve efficiency and strengthen internal controls.
Education, Certifications and/or Licenses
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration required. CPA license or CPA eligibility is strongly preferred.
Experience
· 3–5 years of accounting experience is required. Higher education or nonprofit accounting experience is preferred.
· Experience with integrated enterprise accounting systems and Microsoft Excel required. Experience with Ellucian Colleague preferred.
Knowledge
· Thorough knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
· Integrated administrative and accounting systems (e.g., Ellucian Colleague, Banner or similar).
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and standard office technology.
Skills & Abilities
· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, including reconciliation and financial analysis skills.
· Ability to calculate and interpret financial data, including percentages, ratios, and variances.
· Excellent attention to detail, high degree of accuracy, and organizational skills.
· Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to prepare clear reports and correspondence.
· Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
· Professionalism and discretion in handling confidential information.
· Commitment to supporting the mission and values of Texas Wesleyan University.
Positions in this classification typically require reaching, grasping, typing, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. The employee must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and occasionally lift or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Regular attendance is required.
This job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibility. Specific assignments and duties may vary based on departmental needs.
Please apply using the link below:
https://txwes.peopleadmin.com/postings/6143