Senior Accountant

Location: Lancaster, PA | Full-time, exempt position within the Finance & Administration department.

About the role

The Senior Accountant supports accurate, timely, and compliant financial operations and reporting at Franklin & Marshall College. This position is responsible for preparing and analyzing financial data, reconciling accounts, supporting audit processes, and assisting with the preparation of financial statements.

Responsibilities

• Perform reconciliations for cash, prepaid expenses, accounts payable accruals, fixed assets, deferred revenue, restricted funds, grants, and other operational accounting areas as assigned.
• Maintain reconciliation documentation and supporting schedules of assigned monthly account reconciliations in accordance with departmental standards and audit requirements; investigate and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Accurately prepare, review, and process journal entries, adjustments, accruals, and reclassifications impacting multiple funds, departments, and reporting units.
• Prepare recurring and non-recurring journal entries in accordance with established accounting procedures.
• Prepare assigned components of the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to established timelines and internal controls.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, workflow efficiencies, and strengthened internal controls; assist with development and documentation of accounting procedures.
• Assist in the preparation and review of financial reports and supporting schedules for internal and external stakeholders, including management, governing boards, and regulatory agencies.
• Prepare and assist in the review of regulatory and compliance submissions including IRS Form 990, escheat and other state filings, NACUBO surveys, IPEDS finance schedules, and other higher education reporting requirements ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting standards.
• Serve as backup support for critical accounting functions and participate in cross-training initiatives within Financial Operations.
• Coordinate assigned audit support activities by preparing audit workpapers, schedules, and supporting documentation, and responding to auditor inquiries under the guidance of senior finance leadership.
• Contribute to the development and documentation of accounting procedures, internal controls, and process improvements to enhance accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency.
• Provide functional support to finance operations staff, including reviewing work for accuracy and offering guidance as needed; may assist with training and knowledge sharing.
• Participate in system implementations, upgrades, and process improvement initiatives, including testing and validation of financial data and workflows.
• Perform special projects and other related duties as assigned in support of institutional financial operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field.
• At least 5 years of accounting experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and accounting/ERP systems (e.g., Banner, Workday, or similar).
• Knowledge of GAAP and internal control principles.
• Ability to independently research and resolve accounting issues.
• Strong understanding of balance sheet reconciliations and month-end close processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively with both financial and non-financial staff.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Google Suite Products (Docs, Gmail, Sheets, Slides, Drive).
• Evidence of a commitment to community and belonging.
• Successful interview and completion of background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA certification or progress toward CPA.
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations.
• Familiarity with fund accounting and endowment accounting principles.

Pay

$85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year.

Schedule

40 hours per week, Monday - Friday. May require evenings and weekends.

Benefits

• Health coverage (medical, dental, vision).
• Generous retirement savings plan contributions.
• Education benefits for employees, spouses, and dependent children.
• Access to College facilities including dining venues, recreation and fitness facilities, and libraries.
• Access to College performances, lectures, and events.