The Senior Accountant, Accruals & Expenses, plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of Howard Universityās expense related financial activities. The position is responsible for reviewing the accounting worktags on invoices, requisitions and other spending; preparing monthly expense accrual entries; analyzing prepaid expenses, expense activity, and reconciling the related general ledger accounts.
Requirements
- Review the accounting worktags on new invoices, requisitions and other spending to ensure accurate accounting classification and adequate supporting documentation
- Prepare monthly accrual entries across administrative and academic units, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP and University guidelines
- Maintain detailed accrual schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation
- Analyze expense trends and variances, propose journal entries, and ensure completeness and accuracy of liabilities
- Prepare and record prepaid expenses and monthly amortization schedules
- Maintain and reconcile prepaid expense ledgers for accuracy and completeness
- Ensure prepaid transactions comply with the University's capitalization and expense recognition policies
- Prepare journal entries, reconciliations, roll-forward schedules, and supporting analytics for monthly close
- Perform account analyses to identify errors, omissions, or inconsistencies, recommending corrective actions where needed
- Support the preparation of quarterly and annual financial reporting focused on accruals, expenses, and liabilities (i.e. variance analysis)
- Assist with expense recognition assessments, ensuring appropriate accounting treatment
- Review contracts, agreements, purchase orders, and vendor documentation to interpret accounting implications
- Conduct accounting research and prepare clear, concise technical memos documenting decisions in accordance with GAAP/FASB
- Ensure adherence to university accounting policies, procurement policies, and applicable regulatory requirements
- Ensure accuracy, proper approvals, documentation, and compliance across all expense-related transactions
- Support internal and external audit requests by preparing reconciliations, schedules, and explanations
- Help identify gaps in internal controls and suggest improvements to enhance financial accuracy and efficiency
- Partner with Accounts Payable, Procurement, Capital Projects, Budget, and operational departments to support efficient financial processes
- Provide guidance to departments on proper accounting practices, expense classification, and policy interpretation
- Assist the Accounting Manager and Assistant Director with special analyses, process improvements, and system initiatives (including Workday enhancements)
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Mental health support
- PTO
- Paid holidays
- Flexible work arrangements
- Competitive salary
- 403(b) with company match
- Ongoing training
- Tuition reimbursement
- Career advancement paths
- Wellness programs
- Commuter benefits
- Vibrant company culture
