Staff Accountant

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As aStaff Accountant you'll be a vital part of a collaborative team that supports Campus Life and more than 600 student organizations. Your work will directly enable student leadership, engagement, and learning by ensuring sound financial stewardship, compliance, and service excellence across Student Affairs.

Be Bold.

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of complex financial operations while helping shape best practices for student organization financial management in a dynamic, student-centered environment.

What You'll Do:

Financial Transaction Management & Compliance (25%)

• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, cost reports, and financial statements; analyze results and resolve discrepancies.
• Process purchasing transactions including accounts payable check requests, purchase orders, and corporate card activity for Delegated Authority Student Organizations (DUU, DSG, GPSG), Registered Student Organizations, and UC-Student Activities areas.
• Ensure accurate and compliant coding of corporate card transactions in accordance with funding sources and general ledger requirements.
• Stay current on Duke accounting guidelines and procedures and communicate relevant updates to student organizations and advisors.
• Respond promptly to financial inquiries submitted through Campus Groups, shared inboxes, and other Campus Life communication channels.

Account Reconciliation & Financial Reporting (20%)

• Complete monthly reconciliations for student organization accounts and affiliated grants, maintaining advisor-approved spending logs.
• Research and resolve discrepancies within the University's general ledger (SAP) to ensure compliance with institutional policies.
• Notify student organizations of account overdrafts and collaborate with stakeholders on timely resolution.
• Ensure all financial activity is accurate, timely, and fully compliant.

Student Staff Supervision & Training (15%)

• Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate student employees and graduate assistants.
• Promote professional development, accountability, and a supportive learning environment for student staff.

Governance & Communication Support (15%)

• Serve as the primary financial and payment subject matter expert for student governing bodies within Student Affairs.
• Maintain regular communication with student government organizations.
• Support financial planning and policy development for student government and the University Union.

Student Organization Financial Systems Leadership (15%)

• Support the development, implementation, and assessment of financial systems used by student organizations.
• Provide guidance to advisors regarding financial best practices, policies, and payment procedures.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of financial training resources and support tools.

Other Duties (5%)

• Perform related duties as assigned to support departmental, divisional, and University goals.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, or a directly related field.
• Experience:




• No experience required for candidates who possess a bachelor's degree in a field related to the position; or
• Four years of directly related financial or accounting experience in lieu of a bachelor's degree.

Preferred Skills and Competencies

• High level of proficiency with computer applications such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new financial systems and applications as required.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities within established guidelines.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze issues at multiple levels.
• Commitment to accuracy, accountability, and customer service in a student-centered environment.

Choose Duke.

At Duke University, you'll join a mission-driven, inclusive community committed to excellence, integrity, and service. You'll have the opportunity to grow your financial expertise, support student success, and contribute to meaningful work that shapes the student experience-while benefiting from Duke's strong commitment to professional development and work-life balance.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help support the financial health and success of Campus Life and Duke's vibrant student organizations.