Accounting Specialist

Position Summary

Cornell College invites applications for a full-time Accounting Specialist. The specialist supports the daily financial operations of the College by performing entry-level accounting and transactional duties across key functional areas, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, student accounts, and general ledger support. This position plays a critical role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with institutional policies, and excellent customer service to students, faculty, staff, and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Accounts Payable & Disbursements
• Process vendor invoices in accordance with College procurement policies and approval workflows
• Verify appropriate documentation, coding, and authorization before payment
• Assist with weekly check runs, ACH, and electronic payments
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9 collection and 1099 tracking

General Ledger & Financial Support

• Prepare and post basic journal entries with appropriate supporting documentation
• Assist with monthly account reconciliations and variance review
• Support the month-end and year-end close processes
• Maintain organized financial records in accordance with audit standards

Compliance & Internal Controls

• Ensure transactions comply with institutional policies, internal controls, and applicable regulations (e.g., federal funding guidelines, IRS reporting requirements)
• Assist with audit requests and documentation preparation
• Maintain confidentiality of financial and student information
• Customer Service & Administrative Support
• Serve as a front-line resource for Accounts Payable inquiries (in person, phone, email)
• Provide clear and professional communication regarding financial processes and policies
• Collaborate with campus departments to resolve issues and improve processes

Other Duties as Assigned

• Assist as needed in the absence of Business Service Staff 
• Complete Special Financial Projects  

About Cornell College

Cornell College is a selective liberal arts college distinguished by our Ingenuity curriculum that builds on the strengths of our One Course At A Time schedule. This combination encourages the qualities of being thoughtful, original, and inventive, using the strengths of a liberal arts education to apply ideas to solve problems and meet challenges through hands-on experience in learning. Academic immersion, Division III NCAA athletic teams, and unparalleled flexibility attract an ambitious student body from across the U.S. and worldwide. We are located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, an urban fringe community located in the heart of the ICR Iowa region.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Basic understanding of accounting principles (GAAP)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and general computer applications
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Strong communication and customer service skills

Working Conditions

This position works in person. The work is performed primarily while seated in an office setting with frequent interruptions.  

Cornell College complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact [email protected].

Cornell College offers a fantastic benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, HSA & FSA accounts, a TIAA 403(b) retirement account, and tuition remission and exchange for employees and dependents. We also offer life insurance, disability insurance, travel insurance, and accident insurance.

This is a 12‑month, fixed‑term position. Continued employment beyond the initial term may be considered based on business needs and performance.  The hiring pay range for the position is $20 - $23 per hour. 

Application Process

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of at least three professional references.

Cornell is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Cornell complies with Iowa's Smoke-free Air Act. Cornell utilizes E-Verify and requires the satisfactory completion of a background check.