Accounting Specialist

About the role

The Accounting Specialist supports core accounting operations at National Louis University, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial records. This role performs general ledger activities, reconciliations, and month-end close responsibilities while assisting with cash management, compliance reporting, and departmental processes.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and post journal entries in accordance with accounting standards
• Perform general ledger account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies
• Support month-end and year-end close processes
• Cash Management & Banking: Assist with bank reconciliations and cash account monitoring, maintain cash activity records, including deposits and disbursements, ensure timely and accurate recording of all cash transactions
• Compliance & Reporting: Manage unclaimed property reporting in compliance with regulatory requirements, process and monitor drawdowns from the U.S. Department of Education Program & Fund Accounting: Oversee gift accounting, ensure proper classification and reconciliation, manage and reconcile sales deposits and related activity, maintain accurate financial records for designated funds and accounts
• Operational Support & Collaboration: Partner with internal departments to support daily accounting operations, provide general accounting support, and contribute to process improvements

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
• Minimum of two to three years of accounting experience
• Experience with general ledger accounting and account reconciliations
• Proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Working knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP)

Preferred Experience

• In higher education, nonprofit, or grant-funded environments
• Experience with fund accounting and/or restricted funds
• Familiarity with federal funding processes (e.g., Title IV drawdowns)
• Experience with ERP systems such as Banner

Benefits

National Louis University offers a wide range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and educational opportunities. The salary range for this position is $51,966.00 to $75,351.00 annually, with compensation decisions based on multiple factors permitted by law, including but not limited to: budgetary considerations, job-related knowledge/skills, experience, market considerations, tenure and standing with the university (applicable to current employees), and internal equity.