Special Projects Accountant

Special Instructions to Applicants: 

All interested applicants please attach a cover letter and resume in PDF format.

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities. 

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary:

The Special Project Accountant performs complex accounting functions with a focus on special projects, including designing and performing ad hoc analyses, developing and maintaining complex data models, analyzing large data sets, and reconciling complex accounts. This position is part of the Controller’s office and will be deployed throughout the Controller’s organization where needed.

Workplace Requirements:

Hybrid position: “This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. [Insert hybrid schedule]. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.” 

Hiring Range:  $72,600 - $92,500

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime. 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s Degree
  
  
  
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted.
  
  


• 3+ years experience in accounting, with a focus on special projects or similar roles.
  
  
  
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted.
  
  

Skills: 

• Advanced proficiency using word processing, spreadsheet, email, and database software


• Advanced knowledge of accounting and accounting principles


• Advanced knowledge of accounting systems


• Strong project management skills


• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously


• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

Essential Functions: 

• Performs complex and detailed reconciliations, closure processes, research, and critical analyses for special projects


• Develops, designs, or modifies solutions for major segments of a program or accounting system; develops, recommends, implements, and documents new or revised policies and procedures


• Identifies, prioritizes, and resolves complex financial issues which may span multiple areas; identifies underlying issues; recognizes exceptions; recommends solutions


• Researches possible solutions and makes recommendations to department leadership based on audit/report reviews and identified accounting issues; advises leadership regarding business activities; provides cost analyses; plans studies; and determines business activity costs


• Develops complex financial data and metrics reports for a variety of internal and external audiences


• Analyzes existing systems and processes; identifies greater efficiencies and improved internal controls opportunities; incorporates new regulations; recommends solutions that may require policy changes or new processes


• Acts as subject matter expert or consultant in specialized areas; contributes to and/or leads special projects in work area, unit, or across functions


• Focuses on reconciliation and data cleanup, business process review, and making recommendations for improvement

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview 

 Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

 Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels.  It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.