Accounting Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Accounting Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States

Division Office of the Controller

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Salary Range 44,000.00 - 49,000.00

Pay Grade

E09

Posting Close Date 09/30/2024

Job Summary

The accounting specialist provides accounting support to the various areas within the Controller’s Office. Analyzes detailed accounting activity in order to reconcile major operating bank accounts. Assists with tax review processes, including the coordination of university tax compliance and reporting obligations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Reconciles bank statements to the book balances to include running reconciliation processes and queries in SOARFIN, SOAR, and ClientLine. Tracks credit card transactions, all deposits and all disbursements. Follows up with various departments regarding differences and questions. May prepare journals as a result of the reconciliation process.

• Responsible for compiling various tax spreadsheets for taxable fringe benefits, sales tax, unrelated business income tax and international tax.

• Updates USM’s internal control plan and tax policies in conjunction with the Senior Tax Accountant. Updates International Tax Navigator through the use of the Foreign National Information System and other processes.

• Reviews Personal Service Agreements and Independent Contractor Forms to determine accurate and sufficient documentation prior to approval.

• Performs various reconciliations, month end and fiscal year end accounting duties as directed by the Associate Controller.

• Assists with other necessary accounting functions, projects and assignments to contribute to the effectiveness of the Controller’s Office and performs other duties as assigned by office management.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or other related field from an accredited college and university and 2-3 years of experience in governmental accounting, higher education, accounting, business and/or tax related experience; OR equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive experience and skills with all Microsoft Office programs and or applications and query tools will be needed.

• Exceptional analytical skills are imperative in accurately processing and reviewing account and tax data to be successful in this position.

• Possess excellent interpersonal communication skills, personal integrity and meticulous attention to detail.

• Ability to interpret and research federal, state and local tax regulations; and ability to work independently with minimal supervision is required of this position.

• Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records, files and reports including Excel spreadsheets and Word documents. Extensive knowledge of Excel is a must.

• The ability to effectively and efficiently problem solve including but not limited to the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and applying several abstract and concrete variables.

Preferred Qualifications

A strong skillset with written and oral communication and experience in governmental accounting for higher education and/or tax accounting.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.