Savannah State University
Position Description – Accountant III – General Ledger & Payroll
Liabilities
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Position Title: Accountant III, GL & PR Liabilities
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: Director of Accounting and Reporting
Department: Assistant Vice President for Finance & Business /Comptroller
Date Prepared: May, 2015
BASIC FUNCTION
This position performs high level accounting operations, including analysis and reporting, primarily involving general ledger journal entries, travel
and check audit, payroll accounting, and high-level accounting analysis. The Accountant III applies strong communication, analytical, technical, and
problem-solving skills in performing accounting functions. This position performs high-level accounting processes in advanced general ledger
systems (PeopleSoft), with proficient use of Excel.
NATURE & SCOPE
The position performs high level accounting operations: reconciliation, analysis, and review. Position is responsible for preparing and posting
journal entries, voucher auditing, payroll accounting and backing up the payroll specialist, and administering the Perkins Loan Program and SHIP
(Student Health Insurance Program). The Accountant III must apply comprehension of the complex nature of computerized financial systems as well
as specialized accounting reports required by the Board of Regents, University System or Georgia. This position works with the PeopleSoft financial
system and Microsoft Office on a regular basis, as well as with senior management, other employees in the Comptroller’s office, University and
external stakeholders. Duties are performed using professional communication skills, both written and verbal, and a high level of comprehension.
Must comply with all applicable University, USG, State, and Federal policies and procedures, as well as with contractual obligations.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
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Verify accuracy and validity of posting and accounting transactions; accounting and reconciliation, communication, and time management
are essential. Perform quarterly and annual reconciliation of Transparency in Government Act (TIGA) report, including annual file
transmission.
Review entries in the financial system for compliance with GAAP, USG, and University policies and procedures; apply fee waivers to
adjust tuition revenue; reconcile and submit file for Student Health Insurance Premium (SHIP).
Audit check requests and accounts payable disbursements to ensure that appropriate policies and procedures have been followed including
accurate vendor information, appropriate supporting documentation, etc. Obtain appropriate information and set up or adjust vendor data
when required.
Perform online banking services and GL processes in support of Treasury accountant such as submitting positive pay files, fund transfers,
posting and cash receipts, etc.
Backup for Payroll Specialist (timecard/payroll processing). On a monthly basis reconcile and adjust (1) benefitted payroll agency
accounts, (2) retiree and COBRA accounts, (3) flex spending accounts, and (4) other payroll agency funds as required.
Perkins Loan Administrator, setting up new Perkins Loan accounts, processing advances and credit balance refunds, performing exit
interviews, preparing loan verification certificates, printing and reviewing monthly reports.
Monitor and maintain accurate records, databases, and other documents to support general funds.
Provide support to other staff within the Comptroller’s Office and related departments. Work with management, employees, and others to
resolve complex accounting issues on a regular basis.
Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions, as well as communicate and collaborate with other employees, project managers,
sponsors, etc. Must understand and be able to apply all University, Board of Regents, State, Federal, and other policies and procedures as
applicable, and specifically in regards to grants and contracts. Perform high level accounting duties and assist with other assignments as
directed by the Senior Accountant.
SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
Position requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, but an advanced degree is desired. Must have a minimum of five (5) years’
experience in a complex accounting environment. Governmental accounting is desired. Requires strong analytical and technical skills, the ability to
work independently, and professional communication skills to work with employees of the University and external parties. Must be an advanced
computer (PC) user, able to perform high-level accounting processes in advanced general ledger systems (PeopleSoft) and proficient in the use of
Excel.