SENIOR RESEARCH ACCOUNTANT

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We are celebrating our 100-year legacy. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century: https://100.scripps.edu/

POSITION TITLE: Senior Research Accountant

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Research Accountant plays a key role in supporting the Finance department by working with the Research Accounting & Financial Operations Manager and the Award Operation Manager to advance the financial management and reporting of the institution's scientific efforts. Key responsibilities include reviewing award documents to ensure compliance with sponsor terms and conditions, interpreting and applying budgetary regulations, and ensuring data accuracy and integrity in the institute's ERP system (Workday). This role will collaborate with both scientific and administrative teams to maintain accurate project-specific budgets and provide timely financial reporting.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Review sponsor specific award documents, interpret terms and conditions, and apply budget information and regulations accurately
• Research historical award budgets, verify the accuracy of data, and make necessary corrections if necessary
• Develop and manage internal project-specific budget templates, collaborating with Financial Analysts to finalize, monitor, and adjust project budgets, ensuring prompt and accurate entry in Workday ERP
• May prepare specialized reports and/or provide support for reporting requests as needed
• Support monthly billing priorities and procedures and contribute to ensuring smooth cash flow operations
• Perform special projects as assigned (e.g., budget projections support, analysis to support Management, systems implementation, etc.)
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible accounting experience
• Experience with grant accounting and compliance regulations for research funding agencies
• Experience working with the NIH and/or other federal sponsors and expertise in the effective implementation of the Uniform Guidance for Federal Awards (UG) preferred
• Experience and/or ability to understand and implement new budgetary grant pronouncements
• A general understanding of processes and controls, including experience providing recommendations and implementing remediations
• Experience working with large ERP systems, to include journal entries, queries, and reports preferred. Workday ERP experience is a plus
• Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Self-motivated with excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• This is an on-campus position requiring 4 days per week working onsite from our La Jolla campus.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $85,000 to $97,750/annually, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.