Research Financial Assistant
$61,955–$77,444 year
On-site · Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Job Summary
The Research Financial Assistant will provide financial and human resource support to Principal Investigators to facilitate effective management of their research projects. Responsibilities include ensuring expenses are eligible and compliant with university and granting agency policies, assisting with financial reports and policies, supporting training on Power BI, processing journal entries and interdepartmental billings, and supporting budget and grant processes. The role also covers research administration tasks such as maintaining electronic databases for applications/proposals, preparing reports for Chairs/Director, assisting with research hires and payroll forms, ensuring end dates align with grant timelines, reviewing contracts and salaries for eligibility, and staying current on grant regulations and university policies. Strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills are essential to work with PIs, Office of Research staff, and other stakeholders in a post-secondary environment.
Required Qualifications
- University degree in accounting, post-secondary accounting diploma, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 1-2 years financial or administrative experience preferably in a post-secondary environment
- Knowledge of University systems (Concur, Unit4, Workday, Power BI) is an asset
- Strong computer skills including MS Office, specifically Excel
- Strong decision making and critical thinking skills
- Ability to interpret policies and financial statements
- Ability to apply guidelines and procedures
- Ability to analyze financial data and present it in an appropriate format
- Strong client-service orientation with a focus on teamwork and service excellence
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to manage multiple demands with high attention to detail
- Familiarity with grant administration and research funding processes
- Experience preparing reports and supporting grant submissions
Additional Requirements
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Legal entitlement to work status in Canada
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