Savannah State University
Position Description – Accountant III – Grants & Contracts
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Position Title: Accountant III, Grants & Contracts
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: Manager of Grants & Restricted Accounting
Department: Assistant Vice-President, Business & Finance/Comptroller
Date Prepared: May, 2015
BASIC FUNCTION
This position performs high level accounting operations, such as analysis and reporting, primarily involving grants and
other contracts. The Accountant III, Grants & Contracts applies strong communication, analytical, technical, and
problem-solving skills in performing accounting functions. This position prepares journal entries and works with
PeopleSoft financial system to generate complex reports; and processes information in advanced general ledger systems,
with proficient use of Excel.
NATURE & SCOPE
Reporting to the Manager of Grants & Restricted Accounting, this position performs high level accounting operations,
including reconciliation, analysis, and review. The Accountant III is responsible for preparing journal entries and
generating complex reports related to grants and contracts on a monthly and year-end basis. This position will also be
responsible for approving grant or contract-related expenditures and must be able to comprehend the complex nature of
grant and contract relationships, including the discernment of allowable expenditures. This position works with the
PeopleSoft financial system and Microsoft Office on a regular basis, as well as with project managers, grant sponsors,
other employees in the Comptroller’s office and other parties related to grants and contracts. The Accountant III applies
professional communication skills, both written and verbal, and a high level of comprehension to effectively complete
tasks; and comply with all applicable University, USG, State, and Federal policies and procedures, as well as with
contractual obligations.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
 Verify accuracy and validity of posting and accounting transactions; prepare journal entries to correct accounting
errors.
 Review expenditures and other submissions for financial compliance with grants and contracts.
 Submit reports to and bill State, Federal, Foundation, and other grant or contract providers.
 Prepare and submit reports to project managers and other internal parties as required
 Monitor and maintain accurate records, databases, and other documents to support Grants and Contracts for the
University as well as any additional records as required.
 Accurate accounting and reconciliation; effective communication and time management
 Support provided to other staff within the Comptroller’s Office and related departments.
 Work with employees, project managers, sponsors and others to resolve complex accounting issues on a regular
basis.
 Communicate and collaborate with other employees, project managers, sponsors, etc.
 Application of all University, Board of Regents, State, Federal and other policies and procedures as applicable,
and specifically in regards to grants and contracts.
 Performance of high level accounting duties and assistance with other assignments as directed.
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 and/or grants accounting is
desired. Requires strong analytical and technical skills, the ability to work independently; and professional verbal and
written communication skills to work with employees of the University and external parties.