The Budget Accountant is responsible for performing advanced accounting, budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting functions that support the University's fiscal operations and strategic financial planning. This position develops, monitors, and manages complex budgets across multiple funding sources; prepares financial reports, forecasts, and budget projections; analyzes financial data and trends; and ensures compliance with University of Wisconsin System policies, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and applicable regulations.
As a key member of the Accounting Services team, the Budget Accountant partners with campus departments to provide expert guidance on budget development, financial management, reporting, and policy interpretation. The position develops and maintains internal controls, identifies opportunities to improve financial processes and operational efficiencies, and delivers data-driven analysis and recommendations that support sound financial stewardship and informed decision-making across the University.
Key Job Responsibilities:- Own and manage complex departmental and institutional budgets involving multiple funding sources, programs, and financial commitments, ensuring fiscal stewardship, budget integrity, and alignment with strategic priorities.
- Prepare, review, and analyze financial statements, journal entries, reconciliations, schedules, and complex financial reports to ensure accurate recording, reporting, and compliance with University policies and procedures.
- Prepare annual operating budgets, financial forecasts, and short- and long-term budget projections; analyze trends and provide recommendations to support strategic planning and resource allocation.
- Serve as a financial resource to campus departments by providing guidance on budgeting, accounting practices, financial reporting, policy interpretation, and training related to financial processes.
- Collaborate with Accounting Services, the Controller’s Office, and campus partners to improve financial operations, enhance reporting capabilities, and support institutional financial planning initiatives.
- Communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively to a variety of stakeholders
- Conduct budget and program analyses; identify discrepancies, research issues, recommend solutions, and provide timely financial information to support decision-making.
- Develop, document, and maintain internal controls, financial procedures, and system processes to ensure data integrity, operational effectiveness, and compliance with University of Wisconsin System policies and applicable regulations.
- Perform advanced financial analysis, including reviewing funding sources, operational needs, budget performance, and institutional data to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and funding options.
Accounting Services
Compensation:$64,000-$68,000 annual
Core Hours - 7:45am-4:30pm Monday through Friday
Required Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
Minimum of two years of experience in budgeting, financial analysis, or accounting, in a higher education setting.
Experience analyzing financial data and preparing reports for management.
Experience using Workday Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) financial systems or similar integrated financial management systems.
Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial regulations, and budgeting practices.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex financial information to a variety of stakeholders.
Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Experience using Workday Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Adaptive budget system or similar integrated budget management systems.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
How to Apply:To apply, click the Apply button at the top of this page. For full consideration, upload your resume and cover letter. Application materials will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled.
Contact Information:Marybeth Meyer ([email protected])
Legal Notices and Important InformationEmployment will require a criminal background check in accordance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment. (see TC1 - App. 4 and p. 12)
Note: Criminal Background Check – The Department of Workforce Development, Equal Rights Division prohibits employers from using criminal background check information, policies or practices that have a “disparate impact” and is not “job-related and consistent with business necessity” in hiring decisions. All information used to screen or hire job applications should relate to the duties of the job.
Reasonable Accommodations
It is the policy of UW-Parkside to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 262-595-2204. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to provide reasonable accommodation for a qualified individual with a disability.
Parkside Crime Statistics Report
In compliance with the Clery Act of 1998, the University of Wisconsin Parkside Crime Statistics Report is available here. Call the UW-Parkside Campus Police Office at (262) 595-2455 for a paper copy of the annual report.
Transcript Requirement
Please note: Transcriptions will be required upon hire.
UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance
- Minimum of two years of experience in budgeting, financial analysis, or accounting in a higher education setting
- Experience analyzing financial data and preparing reports for management
- Experience using Workday Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) financial systems or similar integrated financial management systems
What We Do
The Universities of Wisconsin is a public university system that serves approximately 161,000 students and awards nearly 37,000 degrees annually, acting as a talent pipeline for the state.






