Position Summary Information
Minimum Qualifications
Associate degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Working knowledge of fundamental accounting principles.
Demonstrated ability to learn, interpret, and apply relevant state, federal, and university financial policies and procedures.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to create and maintain complex spreadsheets, databases, formulas, and tracking tools used for budget administration and reconciliation.
License/Certification Required
Essential Job Functions
The Financial Specialist provides operational support to the Education Abroad team, with responsibility for budget administration, faculty-led program expense reporting, and related record keeping. Reporting directly to the Business Officer, the position manages detailed, time-sensitive financial information from university systems, faculty leaders, and external entities. During slower periods of the year, the Financial Specialist also supports special projects assigned by the Business Officer.
Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment, professional communication, adaptability, and the ability to independently manage multiple priorities and deadlines. The Financial Specialist has responsibilities in the following areas:
Management of Faculty-Led Education Abroad Program Finances:
- Program leader travel preauthorizations
- Program expense reporting
- Travel advance processing
- Pre-departure trainings and workshops for program leaders
Communication and Coordination:
- Timely and professional communication with internal and external stakeholders
- Coordination of fiscal services with internal and external stakeholders
- Maintaining clear lines of communication with the Business Officer
Process Improvement:
- Identifying and resolving programmatic and accounting issues
- Recommending practical process improvements to the Business Officer
- Maintaining clear procedures and fiscal responsibility
- Assisting in the implementation of approved process changes
Records Management and Compliance:
- Maintain complete, accurate, and accessible financial records in accordance with university policies, state requirements, established procedures, and applicable retention standards.
Special Projects and Operational Support:
- Complete special projects and provide additional operational support as assigned by the Business Officer, particularly during periods of lower program activity.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated familiarity with Appalachian State University systems, including Banner Finance, Banner Student, Emburse (formerly Chrome River), Microsoft Office/365 Applications and Google applications.
Work Schedule/Hours
On-site workdays Tuesday through Thursday. Remote work on other days as appropriate, subject to departmental approval and operational needs.
Number of Hours Per Week
20-30
Number of Months Per Year
12
Mandatory Staff
No
Physical Demands of Position
Minimal lifting, sitting for long periods of time at the computer, and various errands across campus as needed. All duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Hiring Range
$24.00-$26.50 per hour
