Financial Analyst I

About the role

The Financial Analyst I supports the Office of Research at Utah State University. This position reports to the Financial Officer and serves as a key financial advisor to unit financial managers.

Responsibilities

• Budgeting & Forecasting:
  • Prepare and monitor departmental budgets and spending plans under guidance of financial operations leadership.
  • Track revenues, expenditures, and commitments to ensure fiscal responsibility and adherence to approved budgets.
  • Aid in forecasting financial needs and variances to inform planning and decision-making.
  • Provide budgeting assistance to the department or unit leader with short and long-term planning.
• Financial Analysis & Reporting:
  • Perform financial analyses to support unit operations and funding decisions.
  • Provide regular financial reports that provide a clear picture of the department or unit’s financial health.
  • Reconcile accounts and ensure data integrity and update financial records.
  • Identify discrepancies and coordinate corrections in collaboration with finance and accounting teams.
• Compliance & Transaction Oversight:
  • Advise the department or unit financial managers on relevant laws, regulations, or policies that may impact the use of funding and/or financial operations.
  • Review purchasing, payroll, and travel transactions for accuracy, allowability, and allocability on the funding source.
  • Maintain internal records and documentation for audit readiness.
  • Review of contracts and agreements to ensure alignment of the department or unit’s budget and availability of funding.
• Customer Service & Collaboration:
  • Serve as the primary financial contact for assigned departments and programs.
  • Provide guidance on financial procedures, budget use, and transaction processes.
  • Participate in Finance department meetings and training to stay current on policies and tools.
  • Proactively meet and review activity, at least every two months, with financial managers and other stakeholders and make necessary adjustments.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, or related field; or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.
• Up to 1 year of relevant work experience may be required.
• Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: Knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting standards; familiarity with budget management and expense tracking practices; proficiency in financial systems, spreadsheets, and data entry tools; strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial recordkeeping; effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to interpret and apply financial policies and procedures; strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks; ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.