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Financial Specialist

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

We are searching for a detail-oriented Financial Specialist to join our Program Finance and Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).  This position will provide budget management and fiscal controls at ARL, and will serve as the Program Finance Manager (PFM) for one of the major technical offices within ARL.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Verify that financial controls are maintained to assure that financial and budgetary information is in compliance with accounting/budgetary concepts and University policy and procedure

  • Assure approval paths, roles and authorizations are established based on appropriate access and controls

  • Manage the budgets for all funds, including sponsored research, overhead and fee, and assist in the budget development process

  • Approve or oversee approval of all financial documents and transactions, expenditures
    (including purchasing card and travel) and budget and assure compliance with PSU/ARL
    policy and procedure as well as specific federal regulations

  • Provide and/or coordinate advice on budget management, financial controls, and
    policy/procedure, and provide training to staff as required

  • Prepare reports, including analysis of historical and current trends and forecasting of funding profile, base estimates, overhead spending and service centers

  • Prepare and oversee the portfolio of sponsored research funding for assigned area including completion of Estimate to Complete (ETC) budgets

  • This position may also supervise and manager employees.

This position will be filled at the Advanced Professional level.  Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree or higher; 3+ years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required skills/experience areas include:

  • Extensive knowledge of ARL Penn State financial and budgeting policies, procedures, and systems such as the Other Direct Cost (ODC) workbook; K2 application for the ePIF, OCI, and ePIAF; SIMBA including Project Builder for creating WBSEs; ProPricer budgeting software and reporting and Management Console reporting

  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook)

  • Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi-disciplinary, team-oriented culture

  • Past success managing multiple projects, initiatives, and tasks with strict deadlines

  • Strong problem solving, analytical and organizational skills

  • Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing

  • Ability to adapt and change in a fast paced environment

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

  • 5 years of experience supporting the financial management of awarded programs for the Navy, DoD, IC and other Government and industry Sponsors

  • Proficient knowledge and experience in government contracting or DOD industry

  • Successful completion of the PSU ACES course

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

Your working location will be hybrid on-site/work from home, located in State College, PA.  Occasional travel may be required to other ARL locations outside of State College, PA.

ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.  We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

You will be subject to a government security investigation, and you must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

**The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.**

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

$61,800.00 - $89,600.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure. 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Affirmative Action

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

University Park, PA

Average salary estimate

$75700 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$61800K
$89600K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Financial Specialist, PSU

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to join Penn State University as a Financial Specialist? The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is on the lookout for someone just like you to become a vital part of our Program Finance and Analysis Department. Here at ARL, we thrive on tackling complex challenges in science, engineering, and technology for the Navy, DoD, and Intel Community. In your role as a Financial Specialist, you’ll manage crucial budgetary operations, ensuring compliance with accounting principles and University policies. You will act as a Program Finance Manager (PFM) for one of our major technical offices, ensuring financial controls are maintained and that the budget development process runs seamlessly. Your responsibilities will include approving financial documents and transactions, preparing insightful reports, and offering crucial training to our staff. We value collaboration and are looking for someone with a strong background in financial management, preferably with experience in government contracting or related sectors. If you have a Bachelor’s degree or higher and at least 3 years of relevant experience, along with outstanding analytical and organizational skills, you could be the ideal candidate. Your work will be hybrid, allowing you the flexibility of on-site interaction and remote work. Join us at Penn State and contribute to initiatives that directly impact significant research projects, all while enjoying a culture that promotes equity and belonging within our community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Financial Specialist Role at PSU
What are the main responsibilities of a Financial Specialist at Penn State University?

As a Financial Specialist at Penn State University, your primary responsibilities will include overseeing financial controls, managing budgets for sponsored research, and providing budget management advice. You will ensure compliance with both university policies and federal regulations while preparing financial reports and coordinating budget development processes.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Financial Specialist at Penn State?

To qualify for the Financial Specialist position at Penn State, you need a Bachelor’s degree or higher, along with at least 3 years of related experience in financial management. Familiarity with financial policies and tools, alongside strong analytical skills, is also essential for this role.

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What skills are essential for the Financial Specialist position at Penn State University?

Essential skills for a Financial Specialist at Penn State include extensive knowledge of budgeting systems, proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication skills, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks under strict deadlines. Experience in the DoD or government contracting is highly advantageous.

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What kind of environment does ARL at Penn State University offer for a Financial Specialist?

The environment at ARL for a Financial Specialist is supportive and collaborative, designed to encourage teamwork across diverse disciplines. As part of a leading research university, you will be engaged in projects that demand innovative financial solutions while benefiting from hybrid work options.

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Can transitioning military members apply for the Financial Specialist role at Penn State University?

Yes, transitioning military members are encouraged to apply for the Financial Specialist role at Penn State University, as ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner, making this a perfect opportunity for those looking to integrate their military expertise into the civilian workforce.

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Common Interview Questions for Financial Specialist
Can you describe your experience with budgeting and financial management?

In your answer, highlight your professional background in budget management, detailing specific examples of projects you've worked on. Discuss the financial tools you've utilized and any successes in optimizing budgets in previous roles.

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How do you ensure compliance with financial regulations?

Discuss your familiarity with financial regulations and your proactive approach to developing processes that ensure compliance. Include specific examples where you successfully navigated regulatory frameworks and how this contributes to financial integrity.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you employ to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines?

When answering this question, share your organizational methods, such as prioritizing tasks and setting realistic timelines. Provide a scenario where you effectively balanced various projects, showcasing your skills in time management and delegation if applicable.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Give an example of a financial analysis you conducted and its impact.

Describe a specific financial analysis you led, focusing on the insights gained and how they influenced decision-making within your organization. Emphasize the analytical techniques you employed and the results of the analysis.

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How would you handle a disagreement with a team member over budget decisions?

Address this question by explaining your conflict resolution skills. Illustrate your approach to having respectful discussions that focus on data and analytical reasoning, emphasizing your commitment to maintaining a collaborative team environment.

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What financial tools and software are you proficient with?

List the financial tools and software you have experience with, such as budgeting software or reporting systems. Discuss how you have applied them in various situations to improve financial management processes.

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How do you stay updated with changes in financial policies or regulations?

Share your strategies for staying informed, such as attending workshops, subscribing to financial journals, or participating in professional associations. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and adaptability in your field.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What do you think is the most challenging aspect of financial management?

Provide an honest answer that reflects understanding of the complexities in financial management. Discuss challenges you've encountered and how you addressed them, showcasing your problem-solving abilities.

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Describe your experience in training staff about financial processes.

Talk about your experience in providing training sessions, including the key topics covered and the feedback from participants. This shows your ability to communicate effectively and empower others in your team.

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Why do you want to work as a Financial Specialist at Penn State University?

In your response, connect your interests and values with those of Penn State University. Highlight your passion for contributing to significant research projects and your commitment to supporting the university's mission through sound financial practices.

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 17, 2025

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