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University Accountant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Fort Wayne Join Purdue University Fort Wayne: We are currently seeking a full-time, on-site Reconciliation Accountant in our Accounting & Budget officeFinancial professional who will serve in a key ...

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University Accountant information

See Indiana salary details

$32.4K

$65K

$103.2K

How much do university accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for university accountant in Indiana is $65,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $74,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a university accountant?

University accountants are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the financial records and transactions of a higher education institution. They ensure compliance with relevant regulations, prepare financial statements, monitor budgets, and support audits. Their role is crucial in maintaining the financial integrity of the university and providing accurate financial information for decision-making by administrators and other stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a university accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a University Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and compliance regulations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, such as Banner or PeopleSoft, and proficiency in spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with university departments and ensuring accuracy. These skills are essential for maintaining financial integrity, meeting regulatory requirements, and supporting the institution’s fiscal health.

What are the typical challenges a university accountant faces when managing grant-funded projects?

University Accountants often encounter challenges in ensuring compliance with diverse grant requirements and meeting strict reporting timelines for sponsored projects. Balancing multiple funding sources, each with its own regulations, can be complex and requires close coordination with faculty, researchers, and administrative staff. Staying up-to-date on changing federal, state, and institutional policies is essential to avoid audit findings and ensure accurate financial reporting. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to managing these responsibilities successfully.

What is the difference between University Accountant vs Financial Analyst?

AspectUniversity AccountantFinancial Analyst
Required CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA preferredFinance or accounting degree, CFA optional
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, officesCorporate, investment firms, or banks
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, educational organizationsCorporations, financial services, investment firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

University Accountants focus on managing financial records, budgets, and compliance within educational institutions. Financial Analysts analyze financial data to guide investment and business decisions. While both roles require accounting or finance credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly, catering to distinct career paths within the financial and educational sectors.

What are popular job titles related to University Accountant jobs in Indiana?

For University Accountant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching University Accountant jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for University Accountant jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various University Accountant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,017 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Principal Accountant (Accountant), Gift and Grant Accounting

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

$87K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The Office of the University Controller (UCO) provides leadership and guidance for financial compliance, systems and services at Indiana University (IU). We strive to be a leader in higher education by embracing financial best practices, continuous improvement and by creating a culture of respect, integrity and collaboration. As an organization, we value knowledge and different perspectives from our people, and we are welcoming of people of different backgrounds. While our department serves all 7 IU campuses, we are physically located on the Bloomington Campus.
Job Summary
The Principal Accountant, Gift and Grant Accounting is responsible for verifying that financial statement transactions related to gifts and grants are recorded in compliance with accounting guidelines, governmental regulations, and university policy. This position is the primary liaison between Indiana University (IU) Foundation (for gift accounting) and Office of Research Administration (for grant accounting).
Department-Specific Responsibilities
  • Develops an understanding of financial transactions related to gifts and grants to ensure proper accounting treatment under authoritative guidance including GAAP and GASB.
  • Serves as a point of contact for the annual year-end audit related to significant gift or grant transactions. Responsible for developing and maintaining process narratives and IU accounting standards related to gift and grant accounting.
  • Coordinates with IU Foundation and Office of Research Administration to obtain supporting documentation related to significant transactions.
  • Prepares and documents certain journal entries, core processes, and work papers related to gift and grant accounting during the year-end audit.
  • Works on projects related to improving processes, increasing compliance and accuracy, and creating efficiencies.
General Responsibilities
  • Applies Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Performs more complex accounting assignments requiring advanced professional experience, knowledge, and competency in accounting principle and practices to safeguard the organization's financial resources and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, laws, and reporting requirements.
  • Establishes and maintains accounting policies and controls, fiscal controls, and financial reports.
  • Prepares, reviews, and provides interpretation of complex reports and analyses for manager and officers.
  • Submits recommendations for improved operations.
  • Oversees and assists with specialized accounting assignments such as the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial activity.
  • Provides work leadership to lower-level accounting employees.
Qualifications
Combinations of related education and experience may be considered. Education beyond the minimum required may be substituted for work experience. Work experience beyond the minimum required may be substituted for education.
EDUCATION
Required
  • Bachelor's degree Accounting, or related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Required
  • 5 years relevant experience.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
Preferred
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Indiana license or Indiana license eligible Upon Date of Hire.
SKILLS
Required
  • Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
  • Maintains a high degree of professionalism.
  • Demonstrates time management and priority setting skills.
  • Demonstrates a high commitment to quality.
  • Possesses flexibility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Seeks to acquire knowledge in area of specialty.
  • Highly thorough and dependable.
  • Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure.
  • Possesses a high degree of initiative.
  • Ability to influence internal and/or external constituents.
  • Ability to drive multiple projects to successful completion.
  • Analytical ability and a high level of numerical competence.
  • Proficiency in IT and demonstrated skill in using Excel to produce financial reports.
  • Ability to reconcile financial ledgers and process accounts payable/receivable.
  • Organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines.
  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to communicate effectively.
Working Conditions / Demands
This role requires the ability to effectively communicate and to operate a computer and other standard office productivity equipment. The position involves sedentary work as well as periods of time moving around an office environment and the campus. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.
Work Location
Bloomington, Indiana or Indianapolis, Indiana
This position is eligible for remote work or a hybrid schedule (mix between remote and in person work), subject to change based on university policy and the department's
business needs.
Advertised Salary
$87,000 - $91,000 annually, depending upon qualifications
Benefits Overview
For full-time staff employees, Indiana University offers a wide array of benefits including:
  • Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
  • Health savings account with generous IU contributions
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • Basic group life insurance paid by IU
  • Voluntary supplemental life, long-term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance
  • Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting
  • Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options
  • Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses
  • 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year
  • Generous paid time off plans
  • Paid leave for new parents and IU-sponsored volunteer events
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
Learn more about our benefits by reviewing the IU Benefit Programs Brochure .
Job Classification
Career Level: Advanced
FLSA: Exempt
Job Function: Finance
Job Family: Accounting & Tax
Click here to learn more about Indiana University's Job Framework.
Posting Disclaimer
This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University, but will remain open for a minimum of 5 business days. To guarantee full consideration, please submit your application within 5 business days of the Posted Date.
If you wish to include a cover letter, you may include it with your resume when uploading attachments.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information .
Campus Safety and Security
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at iups@iu.edu or by visiting IUPD.
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