Staff Accountant

Lesley University seeks a Staff Accountant to support accurate, timely financial operations for a mission-driven, student-centered institution. Reporting to Finance leadership, this role handles general ledger entries, reconciliations, and monthly close; prepares financial reports and analyses; and supports budgeting and audits. The Staff Accountant ensures compliance with GAAP and university policies, strengthens internal controls, and partners with academic and administrative units to explain financial results. This position thrives in Lesley's collaborative, inclusive culture, contributing to social justice, creativity, and educational impact through sound financial stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and post journal entries and maintain the general ledger.

• Perform monthly and quarterly account reconciliations.

• Support month-end and year-end close processes.

• Prepare financial statements, schedules, and management reports.

• Assist with annual budgeting and periodic forecast updates.

• Conduct variance analysis and explain results to campus partners.

• Support internal and external audits with schedules and documentation.

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, university policies, and relevant regulations.

• Strengthen and maintain internal accounting controls and procedures.

• Collaborate with academic and administrative departments on financial questions and processes.

Required Skills

• General ledger accounting

• Account reconciliations

• Financial reporting

• Budget preparation and monitoring

• Variance analysis

• Accounts payable/receivable

• Excel and spreadsheet modeling

• ERP or financial systems (e.g., Banner, Workday, Oracle, SAP)

• GAAP knowledge

• Internal controls