Sponsorship for Work authorization is not available for this position.
The Financial & Purchasing Specialist reports to and functions under the general administrative supervision of the Director of Business Operations within the University Bursar Office and is responsible for supporting operational and financial processes related to the University's Accounts Receivable functions through the effective use of the Banner A/R module and related integrated systems. The position requires demonstrated technical knowledge of Banner functionality, financial processing workflows, data management, reporting, and reconciliation activities. The Financial & Purchasing Specialist must possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to support business operations, maintain data accuracy, respond to information requests, and assist with system-related processes within the University Bursar Office.
- Manage and support daily accounts receivable data processing activities within Banner and related integrated systems, including preparation and submission of feeder data received from multiple University payment portals.
- Perform monthly reconciliation, validation, and analysis of financial and transactional data related to billing, payment processing, foreign national payments, departmental payment requests, and GAR transactions.
- Develop, generate, and maintain Banner data downloads and reports utilized by Business Operations for reporting, reconciliation, analysis, and operational purposes.
- Provide technical and operational support during audit and review activities by responding to auditor inquiries, researching transactional issues, and preparing supporting documentation, data extracts, and analysis.
- Serve as the backup departmental security contact for the University Bursar's Office by coordinating system access, maintaining security-related documentation, and ensuring compliance with University security procedures and protocols.
- Coordinate and monitor purchasing and accounts payable activities for the University Bursar, utilizing T-Card, P-Card, and iBuy systems to ensure accurate and timely procurement and payment processing.
- Resolve purchase order and invoicing discrepancies by reviewing invoices and purchase orders, communicating with vendors, campus purchasing staff, and University Payables to ensure timely resolution of issues.
- Serve as the backup in monitoring the Production Calendar, which schedules overnight and daily job processing for the modules within the University's integrated Banner System; coordinate scheduling and implementation of activities of University modules throughout the year.
- Serve as the backup for managing Returned Checks. Responsible for all organization, investigation, processing, communication, and documentation of all NSF/Returned checks for all System Office locations.
- Assist with Bursar-related human resources activities, such as onboarding and compliance activities, when needed.
1. Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a field related to the position.
2. Two (2) years of professional business, financial, and/or managerial work experience.
3. (NOTE: A Master's Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year (12 months) of work experience.)
Preferred:
1. Professional experience using information management principles to support business processes.
2. At least three years of management analysis, with a strong understanding of Microsoft Office and SQL.
3. Experience with existing Banner A/R systems and/or procedures.
- Demonstrated knowledge of accounting, reconciliation, and financial analysis principles.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and data accuracy.
- Ability to interpret, compile, analyze, and distribute operational and financial data.
- Effective organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines.
- Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to learn and apply University systems, policies, procedures, and business processes related to accounts receivable operations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and business systems utilized to support reporting and operational functions.
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5010 - Business/Administrative Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible. Sponsorship for Work authorization is not available for this position. System Office jobs such as this one are not eligible for the Referral Program.
The budgeted salary range for the position is $50,000 to $60,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 30th, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Bree Smith at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [email protected].
Requisition ID: 1037627
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
