Senior Budget Accountant

About the role

Indian River State College is seeking a Senior Budget Accountant to provide high-level analytical and operational support to the Chief Budget Officer and senior leadership in the development, implementation, and oversight of the College’s operating and capital improvement budgets.

Responsibilities

• Participate in budget meetings, workshops, and hearings to support the development and administration of annual operating and capital improvement budgets.
• Analyze and forecast complex financial and budget data, including revenue projections, expense allocations, and HR-related budget adjustments, using large datasets.
• Monitor budget activity for adherence to organizational policies and financial regulations.
• Analyze spending patterns, conduct account analyses, and make recommendations for improved fiscal management.
• Prepare, reconcile, and present financial reports with advanced analysis, trend evaluation, and forecasting.
• Clearly communicate complex financial concepts to stakeholders at all levels.
• Advise departments on budgeting policies, procedures, and best practices to promote compliance and effective financial stewardship.
• Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard financial assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Contribute to the development of organizational financial strategy and governance practices.
• Utilize ERP systems, budgeting software, and reporting tools to support financial planning and reporting.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses and develop record-keeping systems.
• Collaborate with departmental directors and staff to refine budget requests, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure optimal resource allocation.
• Coordinate with HR on staffing changes and related budgetary impacts.
• Provide training and guidance to departmental staff on budgeting processes and financial management tools.

Qualifications, Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum five (5) years of progressive experience in accounting, budgeting, or financial planning.
• Knowledge of fund accounting and governmental accounting principles; experience in higher education is preferred.
• Prior experience in higher education or government environments strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in financial software applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, ERP systems) and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to analyze, develop, and produce spreadsheets and complex budget reports.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and summarize complex financial data for varied audiences.
• Demonstrated skill in applying sound budgeting principles and exercising independent judgment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders, including executive leadership and governing boards.
• Diplomatic skill in explaining budget procedures and in obtaining sensitive or confidential information.
• Proven financial leadership and decision-making capabilities.
• Highly organized and self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities.
• Discretion in handling confidential or sensitive information.
• Familiarity with construction management budgeting is a plus.

Physical Demands

This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as sedentary work involving lifting no more than 10 pounds at a time and occasionally lifting or carrying articles like docket files, ledgers, and small tools. Although a sedentary job is defined as one which involves sitting, a certain amount of walking and standing is often necessary in carrying out job duties. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required occasionally, and other sedentary criteria are met.