Sponsored Finance Specialist

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Remote position

This position is located in Ithaca, New York. The successful candidate will have the option to perform this role at a location of their choosing within the United States.

The New York Convenience of employer guidelines require New York State individual tax reporting and withholdings for this position. Additional individual state income tax filings may also be required if working temporarily outside New York State.

No Visa sponsorship available for this position.

Who we are:

Cornell University, unique among peers, is the federal land-grant institution of New York State, a private endowed university, and a member of the Ivy League. The Division of Financial Affairs provides central financial functions in support of the university's academic mission. Our vision is "To deliver world-class financial services to the university." Together, we strive to adhere to this vision by promoting an environment where best practices are championed and our employees are empowered to do their best work in all areas of financial service.

Our Team:

The Sponsored Financial Services (SFS) unit provides post-award financial administration of approved sponsored grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements on behalf of Cornell University. As a team member, you'll have the opportunity to support the exciting research and extension activity for the Ithaca campus and support the organizations values of collegiality, integrity, initiative, excellence, civility and stewardship.

What you can expect in this role:

Under the general guidance of a team leader or manager, the Sponsored Financial Specialist will facilitate Cornell's world class faculty-led research by providing post award financial administration of sponsored projects and is viewed as an expert resource to the university community in regard to award requirements and university compliance issues.

What you will do:

This position is responsible for the review of sponsored project agreements and activities, ensuring compliance with specific financial terms and conditions outlined in agreement documents as well as conformity with Federal Uniform Guidance and University policies. Specifically, reviewing invoices, line of credit draws, creating and submitting financial reports as specified by each sponsor, project closeout, and analysis of award expenses for allowability, allocability, and necessity. In addition, this position will provide leadership, training, service, and advice to department personnel with respect to their management of the financial aspects of their awards, particularly relative to compliance issues. You will work closely with the Office of Sponsored Programs Grant and Contract Officers to ensure accuracy, completeness and compliance with sponsor requirements. You will be required to provide a wide variety of non-standard responses to a wide range of federal, state, university, corporate and non-profit sponsors with financial inquiries/concerns.

Qualities/Skills required for success:

We need an organized, methodical and detail driven individual with business acumen and excellent communication skills who desires to be the subject matter expert in sponsored project administration. Ideally, you will have spent time working in a finance or higher education environment where you succeeded tackling challenges in a fast-paced organization. Additionally, you will have:

• An associate's degree, preferably in business or accounting/finance, with at least 2 - 4 years of accounting related experience and/or four or more years of finance related experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in PC systems (Excel, Word, E-mail, Query and Analysis tools, etc.) is required. Excellent communication skills, ability to resolve issues in a timely manner, and excellent organizational skills and attention to detail will also be required.
• Must be able to work independently with limited supervision. Successful candidate will possess strong analytical skills and be able to apply logic to complex situations.
• Must be able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks of varying complexity and urgency.

Preferably you will also have:

• A bachelor's degree.
• Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA), Cornell Research Administration Certification or similar certification pertaining to research administration preferred.
• Experience with Kuali Financial System and Oracle Analytic Server is valuable.
• Prior work experience with some similarity to grant and contract accounting/administration, or accounting/financial experience in a non-profit organization will be helpful.
• Familiarity with Federal contracting and procurement regulations will be a plus. Demonstrated leadership skills in his/her employment history, and/or civic organizations desirable.

What we offer:

Great benefits that include educational benefits, access to a plethora of wellness programs, employee discounts, health care, paid vacation, health/personal time, 12 university paid holidays (including end of year winter break through New Year's Day) and employer retirement contributions.

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Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience

• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position

• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

Union Positions

Current Employees:

Online Submission Guidelines:

Employment Assistance:

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also visit the office of Workforce Recruitment and Retention Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. to use a dedicated workstation to complete an online application.

Notice to Applicants:

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.