Please submit a cover letter as the first page of your resume. In the letter, share your interest in the role and how your experience connects to the core responsibilities and skills below.
What You'll Be Responsible For
Patent Expense and License Revenue Billing (50%)
Manage the end-to-end billing process for both patent expense reimbursement and monthly license revenue, ensuring accuracy at every step
Generate accurate invoices for licensees and co-owners, with a focus on completeness and compliance with financial terms
Create and maintain revenue records in Sophia (our IP management system)
Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies with careful attention to financial accuracy
Generate reports to support analysis, billing accuracy, and forecasting as needed
Track and manage reimbursement terms for new and amended licenses
Accounts Receivable Support (40%)
Send reminders and initial outreach for past-due invoices
Work with licensees to resolve payment issues or disputes
Collaborate with the finance team to escalate issues as needed
Maintain detailed documentation of communications and AR status
Support financial analysis and reporting related to outstanding balances
Team Support & Cross-Training (10%)
Serve as a backup for other operational finance staff when needed
Cross-train with teammates to ensure continuity and shared knowledge
Support special projects or process improvements as needed
Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
At least 2-5 years of relevant experience in accounts receivable, financial analysis, or similar roles
Solid understanding of financial/accounting principles
Experience with invoicing, payments, and journal entries
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (formulas, filters, etc.)
Strong organizational and communication skills
Ability to work independently in a remote/hybrid setting
Tech-savvy and comfortable navigating multiple systems
Familiarity with University of Michigan financial systems (M-Pathways, etc.)
Experience working with IP management platforms or complex financial structures
This role reports to the Director of Operations for Innovation Partnerships and is posted as a hybrid position. In-person attendance is expected at least two days per month, and you're welcome to join the office in person as frequently as you like.
Our Commitment to You
We know great candidates bring more than just a checklist of qualifications. If this role resonates with you even if you're not sure you meet every single requirement we encourage you to apply. You may be the right fit in ways we haven't even thought of yet.
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.
A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.