Financial Assistant, Academic Dept at Columbia University
Overview
The Financial Assistant supports the Department of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies at Columbia University, a leading center for regional scholarship. Reporting to the Director of Academic Administration and Finance, you own invoice processing, purchasing card reconciliation, and travel reimbursements across a $60K budget. You work with faculty, students, and central offices to ensure compliance with university financial programs. This role is ideal for a meticulous operator who thrives in a scholarly environment and handles diverse financial and administrative tasks daily.
What You'll Do9
- 1Process invoices from internal and external vendors, and prepare service contracts using ARC.
- 2Reconcile departmental purchasing cards monthly to ensure accurate cost distribution.
- 3Coordinate payment of hotel bills and travel reimbursements for conference attendees through online expense reports.
- 4Serve as the point person for faculty and student inquiries about university financial programs, procedures, and regulations.
- 5Reconcile vendor payments, check for duplicates, and validate account distribution on processed invoices.
- 6Assist the Business Manager with monthly account reconciliation, fiscal year closing, and monitoring faculty research accounts.
- 7Hire and process payroll for student casual and work-study employees.
- 8Update the departmental webpage and coordinate social media publicity.
- 9Assist the Director of Undergraduate Studies with the departmental newsletter publication.
Requirements10
- 1High school diploma or equivalent, with 3+ years of related experience.
- 2Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access).
- 3PC skills and proficiency in Dreamweaver or other website creation software, plus experience with social media.
- 4Knowledge of Columbia University's accounting systems (ARC) or ability to gain proficiency.
- 5Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- 6Ability to maintain high confidentiality and professionalism with a client focus.
- 7Strong multi-tasking, prioritization, and organization skills.
- 8Attention to detail, research, critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- 9Self-starter, a fast learner who works independently under limited supervision.
- 10Ability to display patience, diplomacy, and tact under pressure and work in an interactive team environment.
Salary Insight
$59 - $60k per year
Location
Required Skills
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