Columbia University
Financial Analyst
Edtech.com's Summary
- Partner with Associate Director of Finance on financial oversight for programmatic, research, and incentive funding including the QMSS MA program.
- Serve as primary contact for financial and administrative inquiries, interpreting university and institute policies.
- Analyze financial activity and prepare reports supporting decision-making and resource management.
- Oversee daily financial transactions, resolve discrepancies, and coordinate with university offices for approvals.
- Supervise Accounts Payable Specialist and manage payroll administration activities.
- Review and approve financial transactions within systems such as Concur, Marketplace, and ARC.
- Manage monthly reporting, account reconciliations, annual Schedule F report, and year-end close processes.
- Develop financial analyses, dashboards, and reports to support operational planning and leadership decisions.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum of three years of relevant experience required.
- Preferred qualifications include non-profit experience, knowledge of university financial systems, and supervisory experience.
- Salary range between $80,000 and $85,000 annually.
Financial Analyst Full Description
- Job Type: Officer of Administration
- Bargaining Unit:
- Regular/Temporary: Regular
- End Date if Temporary:
- Hours Per Week: 35
- Standard Work Schedule:
- Building:
- Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000
Position Summary
The Institute for Social and Economic Research and Policy (ISERP) is Columbia Universityâs research institute dedicated to the social sciences. ISERP supports researchers, faculty, students, and social science research through research development, education and training programs, centers, and programmatic initiatives.
Reporting to the Associate Director of Finance, the Financial Analyst supports the financial management and research administration functions of ISERP. The Financial Analyst contributes to the oversight and analysis of financial activity across the Instituteâs portfolio of sponsored, unrestricted, and programmatic funds, supporting budget planning, financial reporting, and compliance with university policies. The Financial Analyst works closely with faculty, program leadership, and central administrative offices to ensure the effective stewardship of research and operational resources.
Subject to business needs, we may support flexible and hybrid work arrangements. Options will be discussed during the interview process.
 Please submit a Cover Letter and Resume to be considered.
Responsibilities
- Partner with the Associate Director of Finance in the financial oversight of programmatic, research, and incentive funding, including financial management for the Qualitative Methods in the Social Sciences (QMSS) MA program. Contribute to budget planning, monitoring, and analysis to support programmatic and research priorities.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for financial and administrative inquiries regarding ISERPâs Business Office. Interpret and apply University and Institute policies and provide guidance to faculty, staff, and students regarding financial procedures and compliance requirements.
- Maintain financial projections and funding overviews for faculty and students within the assigned portfolio. Analyze financial activity, prepare reports, and present findings to support informed decision-making and effective resource management.
- Oversee day-to-day financial transactions and processes, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely completion. Independently research and resolve discrepancies and coordinate with central University offices and departmental partners to address issues and obtain required approvals.
- Supervise and provide day-to-day oversight of the Accounts Payable Specialist, including assigning and prioritizing work, reviewing transactions for accuracy and compliance, monitoring workflow, and supporting training and performance management.
- Support payroll administration activities, including monitoring payroll transactions, clearing suspense accounts, and ensuring transactions are processed accurately and within established deadlines.
- Review and approve financial transactions within university systems such as Concur, Marketplace, and ARC, ensuring adherence to institutional policies and established financial controls.
- Manage cyclical financial activities, including monthly reporting, account reconciliations, preparation of the annual Schedule F report, and coordination of year-end close processes.
- Ensure the workflow for all AP and Procurement transactions is completed within a timeframe consistent with best practices, ISERP protocols, and university regulations.
- Develop financial analyses, dashboards, and reports to support operational planning, financial monitoring, and leadership decision-making.
- Assist management in documenting and improving financial workflows, implementing operational processes, and administering policies that support the Instituteâs evolving research and programmatic activities. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and strengthen financial reporting and reconciliation processes.
- Perform other duties and participate in projects as assigned.
- Â
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or its equivalent and a minimum of three years of relevant experience. Â
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a non-profit environment with direct experience in grants and financial management.
- Knowledge of University financial policies and systems.
- Previous supervisory experience.
Other Requirements
- Ability to gather, synthesize, and analyze information on different issues and clearly and accurately communicate findings.
- Must be able to read and interpret financial statements.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to maintain high confidentiality and professionalism with a client focus.
- Strong multi-tasking, prioritization, and organization skills.
- Attention to detail, research, critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Self-starter, a fast learner who can work independently under limited supervision.
- Work well in an interactive team environment.
- Tactfully approach others, react well under pressure or in difficult situations, and follow through on commitments.
- Ability to respond to time-sensitive requests and work in a deadline-driven environment.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
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