Graduate Assistant- Finance & Operations

Occupational Summary

The Graduate Assistant – Finance & Operations provides analytical and operational support to the university’s Finance Division, including Accounting, Student Accounts, and related operational functions. This role supports general ledger activities, account reconciliations, budget reporting, process documentation, and workflow improvements.

The position is designed to provide meaningful professional experience in higher education financial management while contributing to process efficiency, data integrity, and operational excellence within the division. Graduate Assistants must maintain a 20-hour work week.

This position is responsible for cultivating and maintaining the institution's Catholic identity and its mission to empower graduates to transform society. As a member of the Newman community, the staff member will join with the institution's sponsors, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC Sisters), to witness God's love in Mission to empower others, foster oneness, celebrate life, form right relationships, and walk as compassionate companions.

Additionally, this position contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other faiths, cultures, or backgrounds.

• Assist with general ledger account analysis and journal entry preparation.
• Support monthly and year-end reconciliation processes.
• Assist in reviewing and maintaining chart of accounts integrity.
• Research and resolve discrepancies in financial data.

• Assist in preparation of internal budget reports and financial summaries.
• Support variance analysis and data gathering for management reporting.
• Compile and organize financial data for decision‑making purposes.

• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
• Assist with development of automation tools (Excel, reporting templates, system workflows).
• Support documentation of financial processes and internal controls.
• Help develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Provide support for student account reconciliations and reporting as needed.
• Assist with inbox triage and communication management for finance‑related inquiries.
• Support cross‑functional finance and operational projects as assigned.

• Participate in special assignments and division‑wide initiatives.
• Conduct research and analysis to support financial and operational improvements.

• Complete all University‑required trainings, including FERPA and Title IX.
• Contribute to the overall success of the offices of Finance, Human Resources, IT, and Facilities.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Must be accepted and enrolled full time (at least six (6) credit hours per semester) in a Master’s degree program during the academic year (fall and spring semester) preferably Business Administration, Data Science, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, data analysis preferred).
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of financial information.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds as needed.

• This is a 12‑month position with a contract that requires annual renewal.
• Monthly stipend of $250.00 throughout the duration of the waiver, ceasing upon completion of the degree.
• University housing is not provided for Graduate Assistants; however, they may coordinate with the Director of Residence Life to explore availability if housing is not at full capacity.
• Graduate Assistants will be provided with the 120‑day meal plan option, which may be subject to tax implications. Meals are available only when the dining hall is open for…