Financial Professional III, St. Paul Campus
University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
About the Job
Working Title:
Financial Professional III
Job classification:
Financial Professional 3 - Fin Generalist (8223FG), Civil Service
Appointment:
Full-time, 100% FTE (40 hours/week)
Office location:
Coffey Hall St Paul Campus, hybrid option available with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office
Pay Range:
$80,000 - $92,000 ($38.46 - $44.23 /hour); depending on education/qualifications/experience
Apply By:
May 15, 2026
The Finance Professional III is responsible for accounting and financial management for the Extension Department of Agricultural and Natural Resource Systems (ANR). The Department is one of four programmatic Departments in Extension that involves work with collegiate faculty from the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), statewide field staff and Department operations. The Department partners with federal, state, and local agencies to provide effective, research‑based education and to integrate diverse perspectives to address critical issues impacting Minnesota's food, agriculture, and natural resources.
This position is a member of the Extension Finance and Planning Team and directly reports to the Finance Manager. The Finance Professional III also works closely with the Department's associate dean, Principal Investigators, and Program Leaders in managing Department resources.
Location and Work Environment
Coffey Hall, St. Paul Campus, with a hybrid option, with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office.
Work Schedule
Core hours 9am-2:30pm with additional hours flexible between 6am and 7pm, as determined by employee and supervisor. Once to twice a year there will be travel and overnight stays required, and some evening work. The employee may need to adjust schedule to meet specific organizational needs.
Primary Responsibilities
This Finance Professional III will assist the Department's Associate Dean and program leaders in developing, implementing, managing and reporting on a $26M budget including $10M in federal, state, and county funding, $4M in income, $8M in gifts, and an average of $4M in sponsored revenue.
Budget Development, Analysis and Reporting (45%)
Work with the Department Associate Dean and their leadership team to develop a department budget that aligns with the University and Extension's financial principles and processes. Provides financial analysis, forecasting, and recommendations to leadership.
Provides data and recommendations to program leaders regarding balances, budgeting practices, accountability, and accounting functions. Monitor expenditures and alert leadership to discrepancies or deficits.
Provide monthly/quarterly reports to the Department's administrative team, PI's and program leaders using resources available in U of M Analytics. Coordinate with CFANS and Extension Finance teams on reporting and special analysis.
Evaluate the budgeting business practices and policies. Make adjustments to provide for efficiencies, needs and better service.
Annually prepare budgets in Recap (Extension's budgeting tool) and Enterprise Financial System (EFS) for the Department and its programs. Confer with Extension/college/central administration as needed.
Financial Operations and Transaction Oversight (40%)
Review and approve (certified approval if applicable) financial transactions (travel reimbursements, requisitions, deposits, vouchers, and procurement card (PCARD)).
Answer financial questions and resolve complex issues from field staff, University staff, and suppliers.
Maintain the integrity of the Department's accounting structure and its chart of accounts.
Monitor systems for compliance with Government Accounting Standards Board policies and procedures.
Prepare and enter journal entries.
Prepare and enter payroll retros and distributions.
Analyze and correct accounting and payroll issues.
Approve Effort Certification.
Complete a variety of accounting functions (capitalizing assets; transferring funds; moving expenses; facilitating invoice requests, setting up new accounts and/or grants). Activities may involve data from multiple departments or colleges.
Financial Management Service & Administrative Coordination (10%)
Review pre‑award financial documents and work closely with Extension Finance & Planning Grants and Contracts Team on funds received.
Work with SPA and SFR in grants reporting and review.
Develop business processes and training materials for staff. Build relationships with other University departments, University of Minnesota Extension staff, clients, and outside funders to coordinate administrative expertise and maintain working relationships with regulatory agencies.
Keep abreast of current University of Minnesota policy and procedure changes and updates related to the University of Minnesota financial system and communicate out as needed.
Serve as a resource expert on University financial policies and sponsored project compliance.
Develop systems to expedite and simplify financial documents and budget‑related work with field staff.
Enter/submit account string information in the internal hiring system for respective departments and accounts.
Special Projects and Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
Position will also participate in professional development opportunities and special projects that contribute to the ongoing improvement of the Department and college.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
BA/BS with a major in accounting, business administration, or related field, and 4 years professional accounting experience. A combination of relevant education and work experience in a closely related field totaling eight years may be substituted for the degree and 4 years of experience. Experience must include:
public institutional accounting
auditing methods and practices
budget management and development
forecasting and reporting
working within a financial structure and fiscal policies
Current U of M Certified Approver, or acquire status within 1 year.
Experience in a computer networked environment with proficiency in using web‑based computer applications and Microsoft Office to generate written accounting reports, spreadsheets, and databases.
Additional Requirements
Must be able to conduct the majority of the work in the state of Minnesota, and work in the office on the St Paul Campus a minimum of 2 days a week.
Must be able to work for prolonged periods of time on a computer.
This position is not eligible for employer‑sponsored visa.
Preferred Qualifications
Degree in accounting, business administration, or related field.
U of M Certified Approver.
Familiarity with University of Minnesota Enterprise Financial System (EFS), policies, and procedures.
Experience in managing public funding sources, creating and implementing business procedures, and/or managing provider and vendor services.
Familiarity with University and sponsor accounting (Federal and non‑Federal) regulations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience handling confidential/sensitive information.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with many individuals.
Exceptional organizational, planning, and problem‑solving skills.
Ability to be a self‑starter and take initiative.
Ability to handle multiple tasks under the pressure of deadlines.
Facilitation skills.
About the Department
The Finance and Planning unit, a team of 12 finance professionals, is responsible for acquiring, managing and dispersing all Extension funding sources. The team designs and implements strategies that ensure our services are efficient, cost‑effective, consistent and user‑centered. We serve as an expert resource for employees across Extension on financial policies and procedures.
About Extension
University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high‑quality, passionate employees, and weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of Extension's programming and employee engagement. https://extension.umn.edu/
Pay and Benefits
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
Pay Range:
$80,000 - $92,000 annually ($38.46 - $44.23/hour); this is an hourly not salaried position.
Time Appointment:
100% Appointment
Position Type:
Civil-Service
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Working Title:
Financial Professional III
Job classification:
Financial Professional 3 - Fin Generalist (8223FG), Civil Service
Appointment:
Full-time, 100% FTE (40 hours/week)
Office location:
Coffey Hall St Paul Campus, hybrid option available with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office
Pay Range:
$80,000 - $92,000 ($38.46 - $44.23 /hour); depending on education/qualifications/experience
Apply By:
May 15, 2026
The Finance Professional III is responsible for accounting and financial management for the Extension Department of Agricultural and Natural Resource Systems (ANR). The Department is one of four programmatic Departments in Extension that involves work with collegiate faculty from the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), statewide field staff and Department operations. The Department partners with federal, state, and local agencies to provide effective, research‑based education and to integrate diverse perspectives to address critical issues impacting Minnesota's food, agriculture, and natural resources.
This position is a member of the Extension Finance and Planning Team and directly reports to the Finance Manager. The Finance Professional III also works closely with the Department's associate dean, Principal Investigators, and Program Leaders in managing Department resources.
Location and Work Environment
Coffey Hall, St. Paul Campus, with a hybrid option, with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office.
Work Schedule
Core hours 9am-2:30pm with additional hours flexible between 6am and 7pm, as determined by employee and supervisor. Once to twice a year there will be travel and overnight stays required, and some evening work. The employee may need to adjust schedule to meet specific organizational needs.
Primary Responsibilities
This Finance Professional III will assist the Department's Associate Dean and program leaders in developing, implementing, managing and reporting on a $26M budget including $10M in federal, state, and county funding, $4M in income, $8M in gifts, and an average of $4M in sponsored revenue.
Budget Development, Analysis and Reporting (45%)
Work with the Department Associate Dean and their leadership team to develop a department budget that aligns with the University and Extension's financial principles and processes. Provides financial analysis, forecasting, and recommendations to leadership.
Provides data and recommendations to program leaders regarding balances, budgeting practices, accountability, and accounting functions. Monitor expenditures and alert leadership to discrepancies or deficits.
Provide monthly/quarterly reports to the Department's administrative team, PI's and program leaders using resources available in U of M Analytics. Coordinate with CFANS and Extension Finance teams on reporting and special analysis.
Evaluate the budgeting business practices and policies. Make adjustments to provide for efficiencies, needs and better service.
Annually prepare budgets in Recap (Extension's budgeting tool) and Enterprise Financial System (EFS) for the Department and its programs. Confer with Extension/college/central administration as needed.
Financial Operations and Transaction Oversight (40%)
Review and approve (certified approval if applicable) financial transactions (travel reimbursements, requisitions, deposits, vouchers, and procurement card (PCARD)).
Answer financial questions and resolve complex issues from field staff, University staff, and suppliers.
Maintain the integrity of the Department's accounting structure and its chart of accounts.
Monitor systems for compliance with Government Accounting Standards Board policies and procedures.
Prepare and enter journal entries.
Prepare and enter payroll retros and distributions.
Analyze and correct accounting and payroll issues.
Approve Effort Certification.
Complete a variety of accounting functions (capitalizing assets; transferring funds; moving expenses; facilitating invoice requests, setting up new accounts and/or grants). Activities may involve data from multiple departments or colleges.
Financial Management Service & Administrative Coordination (10%)
Review pre‑award financial documents and work closely with Extension Finance & Planning Grants and Contracts Team on funds received.
Work with SPA and SFR in grants reporting and review.
Develop business processes and training materials for staff. Build relationships with other University departments, University of Minnesota Extension staff, clients, and outside funders to coordinate administrative expertise and maintain working relationships with regulatory agencies.
Keep abreast of current University of Minnesota policy and procedure changes and updates related to the University of Minnesota financial system and communicate out as needed.
Serve as a resource expert on University financial policies and sponsored project compliance.
Develop systems to expedite and simplify financial documents and budget‑related work with field staff.
Enter/submit account string information in the internal hiring system for respective departments and accounts.
Special Projects and Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
Position will also participate in professional development opportunities and special projects that contribute to the ongoing improvement of the Department and college.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
BA/BS with a major in accounting, business administration, or related field, and 4 years professional accounting experience. A combination of relevant education and work experience in a closely related field totaling eight years may be substituted for the degree and 4 years of experience. Experience must include:
public institutional accounting
auditing methods and practices
budget management and development
forecasting and reporting
working within a financial structure and fiscal policies
Current U of M Certified Approver, or acquire status within 1 year.
Experience in a computer networked environment with proficiency in using web‑based computer applications and Microsoft Office to generate written accounting reports, spreadsheets, and databases.
Additional Requirements
Must be able to conduct the majority of the work in the state of Minnesota, and work in the office on the St Paul Campus a minimum of 2 days a week.
Must be able to work for prolonged periods of time on a computer.
This position is not eligible for employer‑sponsored visa.
Preferred Qualifications
Degree in accounting, business administration, or related field.
U of M Certified Approver.
Familiarity with University of Minnesota Enterprise Financial System (EFS), policies, and procedures.
Experience in managing public funding sources, creating and implementing business procedures, and/or managing provider and vendor services.
Familiarity with University and sponsor accounting (Federal and non‑Federal) regulations.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience handling confidential/sensitive information.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with many individuals.
Exceptional organizational, planning, and problem‑solving skills.
Ability to be a self‑starter and take initiative.
Ability to handle multiple tasks under the pressure of deadlines.
Facilitation skills.
About the Department
The Finance and Planning unit, a team of 12 finance professionals, is responsible for acquiring, managing and dispersing all Extension funding sources. The team designs and implements strategies that ensure our services are efficient, cost‑effective, consistent and user‑centered. We serve as an expert resource for employees across Extension on financial policies and procedures.
About Extension
University of Minnesota Extension is a major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. Our mission is to make a difference by connecting community needs and University resources to address critical issues in Minnesota. Extension strives to attract and retain high‑quality, passionate employees, and weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of Extension's programming and employee engagement. https://extension.umn.edu/
Pay and Benefits
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
Pay Range:
$80,000 - $92,000 annually ($38.46 - $44.23/hour); this is an hourly not salaried position.
Time Appointment:
100% Appointment
Position Type:
Civil-Service
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr