Financial Assistant

• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: Local 2110
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $53,226 - $59,000

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Administration, the Financial Assistant is responsible for the day-to-day financial operations in the Department of Biological Sciences.

The Department of Biological Sciences at Columbia University has a rich history of pioneering research and education contributing significantly to fields such as genetics, molecular biology, and neuroscience. Today, it continues to advance scientific knowledge with cutting-edge research and a commitment to fostering innovation in biological sciences.

Responsibilities

• Tracks and reconciles financial transactions including but not limited to payroll, purchase orders, invoices, and check requests.
• Bills items for the department stockroom, contract accounts, and recovery of user costs for phones, copying, and petty cash.
• Assists with identifying and reconciling ARC FDS statement discrepancies.
• Process journal vouchers and internal transfers (ITFs).
• In close collaboration with the Director of Administration and the Business Manager, prepares the departmental payroll and graduate tuition fees.
• Prepares monthly financial reports and distributes them accordingly to faculty and administrative staff.
• Manages the department???s petty cash fund and ensures regular reconciliation to ensure that funds are spent properly.
• Coordinates maintenance and repair of copy machines.
• Prepares packages for FedEx shipments and ensures accuracy of items and quantities.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and two years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Some college preferred.

Other Requirements

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain high confidentiality and professionalism with a client focus.
• Strong multi-tasking, prioritization, and organization skills.
• Attention to detail, research, critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Self-starter, a fast learner who can work independently under limited supervision.
• Work well in an interactive team environment.
• Working knowledge of database programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.