Accounting Assistant, Business Operations

Summary:

The accounting assistant (reporting) provides post‑award financial administration for research projects at the university. This role involves maintaining financial activities for assigned research awards, such as interpreting funding agreements, preparing financial statements, and completing billings. This position supports researchers by offering guidance on project fund management and clearly presenting financial information to internal and external stakeholders. The assistant also contributes to operational excellence by developing procedures, supporting audits, and collaborating on process improvement initiatives. Collaboration across campus units and with external funders is central to maintaining effective financial stewardship of research funds.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides financial reporting and billings for a portfolio of research projects based on agreement requirements.
• Interprets funding agreements to determine reporting and billing obligations.
• Gathers and presents financial positions to stakeholders based on financial system data.
• Provides guidance to researchers on financial stewardship of their project funds.
• Communicates technical financial information to non‑technical users across campus to strengthen internal controls.
• Develops and maintains standard operating practices to support peer training and audit processes.
• Recommends projects aimed at improving efficiency and effectiveness in financial processes and implements approved initiatives.
• Supports audits of research awards and projects by guiding units through audit requirements, interpreting auditor requests, and providing expertise on fund accounting processes.
• Builds and maintains relationships with internal and external stakeholders connected to assigned research awards.
• Provides training and knowledge-sharing to colleagues in areas of focus to support team development.
• Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment. 
• Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training, and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion. 
• Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect, and non-judgement. 
• Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position.  

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting.
• Minimum of two years of related experience in project-level financial statement preparation, invoicing, accounts receivable follow-up and relationship management.
• Experience in audit environments is an asset.
• Working knowledge of federal granting agency financial policies and administrative guidelines.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret financial regulations and institutional policies.
• Effective communication skills for translating technical information to varied audiences.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office application and financial systems, such as Banner, FAST, PeopleSoft, UnivRs, and JIRA.

Department: Business Operations Admin
Status: Permanent
Employment Group: ASPA
Shift: Mon-Fri, 8:00-4:30
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $53,091.00 - 82,954.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 1
Posted Date: 7/17/2026
Closing Date: 8/3/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact usfor assistance.