ACCOUNTANT I or II

  • Cal State University (CSU) Humboldt
  • Arcata, California
  • Apr 03, 2024
Accounting and Finance

Job Description

Accountant I or Accountant II

Accounting
Job #537516

First Review Date: Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Open Until Filled

At Cal Poly Humboldt, bold hearts and open minds shape the future.

Founded in 1913, Cal Poly Humboldt began as a small college for teachers. Today Humboldt has grown into a comprehensive university with rigorous science and liberal arts programs. Designated a polytechnic in 2022, Cal Poly Humboldt provides hands-on, impactful educational opportunities that lead to meaningful, measurable outcomes for the individual, for the state, and the world.

Cal Poly Humboldt is proud to have nearly 6,000 students of all backgrounds spread across 61 majors, 13 graduate programs, and 4 credential programs - all of whom contribute passion and creativity within their fields and set the stage for a future grounded in equity and sustainability. Hands-on learning, inspired teaching, ground-breaking research, and thought-provoking creative activity happen daily at Humboldt.

Cal Poly Humboldt is a Hispanic-Serving Institution that strives to foster an inclusive and equitable community to support our students of diverse backgrounds. We are committed to achieving the goals of equal opportunity and endeavors to employ faculty and staff of the highest quality committed to working in a multicultural and multiracial community that reflects the diversity of the state.

Finding a better future is a task for the bold and open, the down-to-earth and visionary. Cal Poly Humboldt strives to cultivate these qualities in leaders, innovators, and scholars in every field.

(Job #537516) Accountant I - (Non-Exempt), Salary Range: $4,241 - $7,946 monthly. Accountant II - (Exempt) Salary Range: $4,675 - $9,022 monthly.

Appointments are typically made at the beginning of the salary range. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. These are full-time, non-exempt for Accountant I and exempt for Accountant II, benefited 12-month pay plan permanent positions with a one-year probationary period in the Accounting Department. These positions come with a premium benefits package that includes outstanding vacation, medical, dental, and vision plans, life insurance, voluntary pre-tax health and dependent care reimbursement accounts, a fee waiver education program, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and 14 paid holidays per year. Additional benefits information can be found at https://hraps.humboldt.edu/employee-benefits .

Position Summary:

Accountant I: Under the direction of the Assistant Controller, the Accountant I independently performs accounting assignments designed to expand practical experience and develop professional judgment in the application of accounting principles. The Accountant I performs a full range of financial duties, including examining financial documents for completeness, accuracy and conformance with established policies and procedures and general accounting standards, and maintaining data integrity within campus account records.

Accountant II: Under the general supervision of the Assistant Controller, the Accountant II independently performs complex professional level accounting tasks that are informed by a thorough knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The Accountant II is responsible for ensuring that assigned accounting activities are carried out in accordance with established policies, procedures and generally accepted accounting standards, and maintaining data integrity within campus account records. The Accountant II is integral in continuous evaluation of existing operational practices and adaptation that may be necessary to maintain compliance with ever changing general and governmental accounting standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Accountant I:
  • Prepare financial analysis and complex journal entries for monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close for the campus and auxiliary organizations as assigned.
  • Prepare and analyze reconciliations: departments, programs, projects and general ledger accounts.
  • Prepare schedules, information necessary for external/internal auditors.
  • Assist with gathering, researching, and reporting financial results.
  • Work collaboratively with others to build alignment and successfully accomplish assigned projects and initiatives that lead to organizational improvement, greater efficiency, and improved customer service to the campus.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Accountant II:
  • Prepare complex financial analyses and complex journal entries for monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close for the campus and auxiliary organizations as assigned. Includes preparation of financial statements, as assigned.
  • Work collaboratively with departments on internal/external audits of the campus, auxiliary and ancillary organizations. Prepare schedules and assist with a variety of audit resolutions.
  • Lead and work collaboratively with others to build alignment and successfully accomplish assigned projects and initiatives that lead to organizational improvement, greater efficiency, and improved customer service to the campus.
  • Research authoritative literature, formulate conclusions and recommend solutions to implement. Interpret new and existing federal, state and CSU regulations.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Associated with this Position Include:

Accountant I:
  • General knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP); office methods and procedures; statistical and mathematical presentation of data; advanced proficiency with current word processing and spreadsheet software programs, web browsers, query tools, integrated financial systems and/or other types of records management systems
  • Ability to interpret and follow instructions and policy guidelines
  • Ability to analyze financial and statistical data, utilize critical thinking and problem-solving techniques, and draw conclusions
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others inside and outside the unit, including conveying technical information to non- Accountants
  • Ability to work collaboratively with others to build alignment and successfully accomplish assigned projects and initiatives that lead to organizational improvement, greater efficiency, and improved customer service to the campus.
  • Demonstrated commitment and/or experience promoting and fostering a working (or learning) environment that is supportive of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to operationalize sustainability concepts (economy, society, environment) into all aspects of performing job duties
  • Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures

Accountant II (in addition to Accountant I Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities):
  • Ability to apply accounting principles to the analysis of complex accounting problems and utilize critical thinking and problem-solving techniques in finding solutions
  • Ability to analyze and interpret accounting data, make recommendations and decisions regarding accounting activities
  • Knowledge of general ledger responsibilities and financial statement preparation
  • Ability to prepare clear, accurate financial statements and reports
  • General knowledge of governmental accounting and internal control methods and related laws, rules, and regulations
  • Working knowledge of federal student financial aid annual reporting requirements, and quarterly grant reporting requirements
  • Lead and work collaboratively with others to build alignment and successfully accomplish assigned projects and initiatives that lead to organizational improvement, greater efficiency, and improved customer service to the campus.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
  • Communicate effectively with others inside and outside the unit, including conveying technical information to non- Accountants


Minimum Qualifications:

Accountant I:

Education & Experience:
  • Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree with a major in accounting, business administration, finance or a closely related field OR a combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities.

Accountant II:

Education & Experience:
  • Equivalent to two years of progressively responsible professional accounting experience.
  • Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree with a major in accounting, business administration, finance or a closely related field OR a combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities.


Preferred Qualifications:


Accountant I:
  • Governmental accounting and auditing experience.

Accountant II:
  • Governmental accounting and auditing experience.
  • MBA or licensed CPA
  • An understanding of the dynamics of diversity in higher education and a demonstrated ability to incorporate this understanding, as appropriate, in all levels of your work.


Application Procedure: To apply, qualified candidates must electronically submit the following materials by clicking the Apply Now button:
  • Letter of Interest
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Contact information for at least three professional references

Application Deadline: The deadline to submit application materials for first review is on Thursday, April 16, 2024. This position is open until filled.

Any inquiries about this recruitment can be directed to careers@humboldt.edu or Cal Poly Humboldt’s Human Resources Office at (707) 826-3626.

We acknowledge that Cal Poly Humboldt is located on the unceded lands of the Wiyot people, where they have resided from time immemorial. We encourage all to gain a deeper understanding of their history and thriving culture. As an expression of our gratitude we are genuinely committed to developing trusting, reciprocal, and long lasting partnerships with the Wiyot people as well as all of our neighboring tribes. Cal Poly Humboldt was the first campus in the California State University system to offer a stand-alone major in Native American Studies.

Cal Poly Humboldt is committed to enriching its educational environment and its culture through the diversity of its staff, faculty, and administration. Persons with interest and experience in helping organizations set and achieve goals relative to diversity and inclusion are especially encouraged to apply.

Working in the state of California is a condition of employment for this position. Even if part or all of an employee's assignment can be performed remotely, the employee must maintain a permanent residence in the state of California. The employee must be able to accept on-campus work assignment, as assigned, and come to campus when needed.

CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity (on- or off-campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measure established by each campus. The systemwide policy can be found at CSU Vaccination Policy and any questions you have may be submitted to hr@humboldt.edu .

Cal Poly Humboldt hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States. This position may be considered a “Campus Security Authority”, pursuant to the Clery Act, and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1107 a condition of employment.

CAL POLY HUMBOLDT IS NOT A SPONSORING AGENCY FOR STAFF OR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS (e.g. H1-B VISAS)

Evidence of required degree(s), certification(s), or license(s) is required prior to the appointment date. Satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check, employment verification, and education verification) is required for employment. Cal Poly Humboldt will issue a contingent offer of employment to the selected candidate, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or if it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Certain positions may also require a credit check, motor vehicle report, and/or fingerprinting through Live Scan service. Failure to satisfactorily complete or adverse findings from a background check may affect the employment status of candidates or continued employment of current CSU employees who are being considered for the position.

Cal Poly Humboldt is committed to achieving the goals of equal opportunity and endeavors to employ faculty and staff of the highest quality reflecting the ethnic and cultural diversity of the state. Additional information about Cal Poly Humboldt can be found at www.humboldt.edu.

Cal Poly Humboldt is a Title IX/Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, disability, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Mandated Reporting: This position may be considered a “mandated reporter” under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

Additionally, all CSU staff and faculty receive training annually on their obligations in responding to and reporting incidents of sexual harassment and sexual violence. You will be notified by email when you are required to take this mandated training.

Class Code: 1762 or 4555
Publication Date: April 2, 2024

Advertised: Apr 02 2024 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

Closing Date/Time:

Job Address

Arcata, California 95521 United States View Map