Accounts Receivable Assistant

The Accounts Receivable Assistant supports the research mission of Boston College and the goals of Research Finance by managing the invoicing and cash management functions for sponsored research. This role ensures timely and accurate invoicing, contributes to process improvement initiatives, and collaborates with various stakeholders across the institution to resolve financial issues.

This position requires a proactive, detail-oriented individual who can manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate effectively with both internal and external partners. The individual must be adept at solving complex financial issues and contributing to the continuous improvement of billing and accounts receivable (A/R) processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Cash Management: Manage cash receipts for sponsored research, including the reconciliation of accounts, monitoring payment schedules, and maintaining accurate records to ensure compliance with institutional and sponsor policies.
• Processing Payments: Knowledge to proficiently manage all aspects of the cash application process, including posting ACH, wires, credit card, and lockbox payments, while following established procedures in accordance with policies
• Collaboration & Problem Solving: Work closely with internal stakeholders, including Principal Investigators (PIs), department administrators, and external sponsors, to resolve invoicing and payment discrepancies. Maintain positive relationships throughout the resolution process to foster trust and cooperation.
• Process Improvement & Documentation: Contribute to continuous process improvement by documenting billing and cash management procedures, identifying areas for efficiency gains, and working on special projects to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Compliance & Strategic Projects: Review award documents to interpret sponsor invoicing requirements and ensure adherence to those specifications. Collaborate with management to support strategic initiatives, perform advanced data analysis, and contribute to key projects that drive departmental goals.
• Technology Utilization: Use various electronic systems and sponsor portals for cash management and reconciliation, submission, and tracking. Provide guidance on the use of these systems to improve data accuracy and efficiency.

Hiring Range

$23.46/hr to $29.34/hr. Pay rate commensurate with relevant experience.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 1 year of relevant work experience, ideally in a higher education, research, or customer service environment.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to non-experts.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills, capable of managing multiple workflows and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including experience with complex formulas for data analysis and reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-based, collegial environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Experience with Pivot Tables and advanced Excel functions.
• Familiarity with systems like PeopleSoft or other financial management software.
• Experience in grants administration, particularly in higher education or research settings.

Additional Skills

• Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and propose innovative solutions.
• Demonstrated experience working with complex financial data and preparing reports.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, handling both routine tasks and high-priority ad-hoc requests.