APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and experienced Accounting Manager to support the Federal, State, and External Awards Team. This full‑time position is responsible for the accounting, reconciliation, reporting, and compliance of all federal, state, private, and university financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and external award funds.

The Accounting Manager provides leadership and oversight for the Federal, State, and External Awards Team and is responsible for staff supervision, project management, regulatory compliance, financial reporting and analysis, and system functionality and performance. This role requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm‑Leach‑Bliley Act (GLBA).

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.

The responsibilities of the Accounting Manager include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare cyclical financial reports and provide data for university financial statements, campus departments, and the Bursar Hub
• Monitor and manage campus‑based aid cash management, including year‑end close processes and the drawdown of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education
• Complete financial transactions and prepare documentation for Penn State’s Financial Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP) in collaboration with the Office of Student Aid
• Ensure ongoing compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations
• Lead and manage the Federal, State, and External Awards Team, including hiring, training, evaluating performance, and promoting exceptional customer service and policy compliance
• Ensure established standards of continuous quality improvement are met
• Provide operational and strategic direction, establish accountability, and implement improvements to existing processes, procedures, policies, and plans

The successful candidate for this position must possess:

• Strong accounting expertise with demonstrated ability to accurately reconcile complex accounts and resolve discrepancies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with Penn State offices, external agencies, parents and families, and students
• Proven ability to analyze financial data and implement effective solutions
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to plan, organize, delegate, and prioritize work to meet deadlines
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• High level of professionalism with the ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing staff

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire)
• Experience processing federal financial aid programs
• Experience with complex financial operations in a higher education environment

Additional Information

The successful candidate must be eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default).

Both a cover letter and resume/CV are required for consideration; incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

 

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

 

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

 

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $129,500.00.

 

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

 

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

 

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