Job Description
Req Id:  40894
Job Title:  Cost Accountant, Effort Reporting and Summer Pay
City:  West Lafayette
Job Description: 

Job Summary

The Cost Accountant will act as the primary contact for effort reporting and cost distribution/payroll charge postings for the University including compliance monitoring and data analysis.

 

Responsibilities Include:

  • Assist in monitoring operational controls and governance for the Effort Reporting system.
  • Perform quality financial analysis and reporting for the cost accounting team.
  • Perform customer valued quality and professional level accounting services critical to the unit's operational goals.
  • Key activities are to provide expertise to facilitate the unit's goals.
  • Assist the rate and recharge shared service center team within the Cost Accounting Office.
  • Participate in the operations, reporting and controls responsible for the federal F&A cost studies which currently generates over $100 million annually.
  • Provide excellent customer service to university business offices and other central offices.

 

What We’re Looking For:

Required:

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance, Business Management, or related field.
  • Three years of experience in cost accounting, accounting, financial analysis, or business management.

 

Skills Needed:

  • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook).
  • Technical knowledge of payroll postings, accounting and cost accounting practices and use that knowledge to analyze, interpret, and implement various Federal and University policies and procedures regarding cost accounting.
  • Knowledge of OMB (Office of Management and Budget) Uniform Guidance and the ability to communicate cost accounting issues to non-technical constituencies such as faculty, legislators, and the public.
  • Customer service focus.
  • Ability to clearly and timely communicate directions, updates, decisions, answers, and other information, with accuracy, professionalism, and tact.
  • Ability to appropriately use and apply technology to accomplish work activities. Demonstrated organizational skills, balancing workload to effectively complete assignments in a multi-task and multi-deadline environment.
  • Demonstrated responsibility for actions, work, and behavior, including ability to set realistic expectations, keep commitments, and act effectively and timely.
  • Demonstrated commitment to professional standards and ethics.
  • Elevated level of accuracy when managing financial data and preparing reports while identifying trends.

 

What is Helpful:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
  • Experience in higher education.
  • Experience working with SAP and Cognos systems.

 

Additional Information:

  • Purdue will not sponsor an employment related visa for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period

 

Purdue University is an EO/EA University.

Posting Start Date:  2/20/26