Job Posting Details

Supervises operations of the Business Office which is responsible for all the accounting and financial reporting functions of the University. The Controller is responsible for promoting fiscal responsibility and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Responsible for the preparation and distribution of all periodic financial statements for internal and external use (monthly, quarterly, and annual) and ensuring that all financial statements, reports, and documentation comply with university and Texas Tech University System (TTUS) accounting policies and procedures, State Comptroller requirements, and professional accounting standards for both GAAP and GASB.  Coordinates internal operations as they relate to purchasing, payroll, budgeting, financial aid, and information systems. Responsible for leading technology implementations. Directly reports to and assists the Vice President for Administration and Finance.

Responsibilities include the preparation of the Annual Financial Report, monthly financial reports for management, quarterly financial reports to the TTUS Board of Regents, grant reporting, foundation reporting, financial projections, and departmental and ad hoc reports as needed. Prepares ratio analysis and other analytical reports as necessary. Also responsible for the investment activities of the University which includes cash flow projections, working with TTUS Treasury, and maintenance of related records and reporting.

Ensures that the University maintains compliance with all bond covenants, makes required transfers and payments, and posts all related general ledger accounting entries. Coordinates with the TTUS Office of Tax Services to provide necessary information for the annual 990T income tax return for unrelated business income. Approves journal vouchers and reviews certain voucher disbursements. Responsible for all records retention, including microfiche, microfilm, electronic, and storage of permanent archives.

Directly supervises the Director of Student Business Services and Manager of Accounting and Asset Management to include training, daily communication, observation, guidance, and mentorship. Reviews work performed by staff such as bank reconciliations, accounts receivable and collections, state treasury reconciliations, property accounting and inventories, travel procedures and payments, student registration accounting, cashiering, and billing operations. Assists faculty, students, and other administrative staff when needed.

Provides information on university fiscal policies and procedures and maintains a system of good internal controls to ensure the consistent application of those policies and procedures. Serves as a resource and expert on accounting and governmental compliance issues and processes for cabinet members, deans, department chairs, budget managers, and faculty members. Responsible for financial related compliance matters and ensuring the timely periodic filing of all required financial statements and financial and operating information for accrediting agencies and other entities. 

Typical work environment is an office, working at a desk for long periods of time. Regular computer keyboard, mouse and monitor use. Repetitive arm, hand, finger motions. Long or irregular house related to the Annual Financial Report or special projects.

Minimum of five years experience in a managerial, supervisory accounting position, preferably with fund accounting experience.

Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP); Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) pronouncements and standards; Fund Accounting. Proficient with the ability to use personal computer, advanced understanding of Microsoft Office Suite, analytical tools, and ERP systems, (e.g., Banner, and other job-related databases and software). Effective communicative skills, both oral and written.

Degree in accounting required. CPA certification, or readiness to sit for the exam, highly desirable. MBA or master’s degree in related field preferred.

Ability to maintain confidentiality, be attentive to details, and meet deadlines. Ability to show initiative, organize workflow, manage projects, and handle frequent interruptions. Ability to supervise, teach, and mentor others. Ability to work effectively as part of a team; and work independently with little supervision. Strong organizational skills including the ability to plan, prepare, and compile detailed data. Must maintain up-to-date technical knowledge of existing and new accounting guidelines as issued by the GASB, the Texas State Comptroller’s Office, the National Association of College and University Business Officers, and similar oversight agencies.  May work long or irregular hours related to reports or special projects.

Serves as a member of the University’s Incident Command Structure during times of emergency or disaster and maintains appropriate National Incident Management System (NIMS) certifications and trainings.  

Requires the ability to maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Texas Values Journey. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Regular reliable attendance is required.

This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. Position is designated as a Responsible Employee as outlined by Title IX. May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.