Overview
The Division of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development (OERD) is an exciting, dynamic and innovative division within NIU, with many departments and many really exciting projects. OERD is largely responsible for generating its own revenue and we succeed by applying best business practices. Departments in OERD include Northern Public Radio (NPR), Education Systems Center, the Center for Early Learning Funding Equity (CELFE), the Center for Governmental Studies (CGS), Illinois Interactive Report Card, Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE), OSHA Training Center, Center for P-20 Engagement, STEM, STEAM, Center for Child Welfare and Education, Upward Bound, Continuing & Professional Education, MTSS and others. This position assists with financial and administrative functions within these departments with a particular focus on the NPR radio station.
Position Summary
The primary function of this position is to manage the financial and administrative transactions for programs within OERD departments, both independently and under the supervision of a senior business associate. This position is responsible for the entry and follow-up for Purchase Requisitions, P-Card (commercial card) purchases and allocation, payroll, Human Resource portal entries, check requests, journals, invoicing and other financial/business tasks for OERD departments. This position will have a particular focus on the NPR radio station, handling business matters and serving as point person for the annual external audit.

This position must be familiar with the mission of each of OERD departments and know the specific Financial Management Service requirements of local, general revenue, grant and foundation funding. This position requires business acumen to establish the appropriate paperwork for subcontracts, works closely with the subcontractors, and ensures all invoices and payments are completed in a timely manner. The position also works with Project Managers on invoicing. Some departments in OERD are located in Chicago; this position is housed on the main DeKalb campus and will liaise with off site programs.

This position requires a high level of organizational and coordination skills, ability to successfully multi-task, and attention to detail.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
NPR Management
Handles AP, purchases, lease management, grant management for NPR radio station.
Serves as point person for external audit that is required by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB); enters into the CPB system.
Categorizes all expenses for audit.
Sends requests to internal colleagues for audit information.
Coordinates grant spending for CPB (2 grants per year), Illinois Arts Council Agency (4 grants per year); and the Northern Illinois Radio Information Service (NIRIS) grant (1 per year).

P Card Management
Manages Procurement Card transactions, allocations.
Manages P Card transactions for Northern Public Radio, making quarterly journals to allocate funding per external audit requirements.

Purchase Requisition Management
Oversees the purchase requisitions.
Follow-up with Procurement and with vendor.
Manage invoice submittals.

Business Administration
Assists senior business associate with budget and administrative issues.
Determines what transaction is needed then preparing and submitting paperwork, entering into the HR portal, reviewing Peoplesoft reports to ensure proper allocations; managing ongoing agreements including preparing and submitting invoices, collecting, analyzing and reporting information for special requests by Department Directors, Division Vice President, etc.
Advanced understanding of financial and administrative processes and requirements, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, and advanced knowledge/skills with NIU accounting systems.

Payroll
Collects timesheets, Benefit Usage Reports for several departments; enters into Payroll.
Sends calendar to employees with dates for timesheet deadlines.
Minimum Required Qualifications (Civil Service)

Bachelors Degree
At least 2 years’ experience with policies and procedures governing accounts payable, accounts receivable, journals, procurement, cost center reconciliation, grants, foundation, general revenue and local cost center budgeting and allocation
At least 2 years’ experience in Microsoft programs, Peoplesoft financial management.
Proven experience making independent decisions on financial and administrative matters.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) (Civil Service)
Classification-Specific KSAs
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership techniques, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, data entry, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
Knowledge of technology including electronic equipment, computer hardware and software, and their applications.
Knowledge of basic arithmetic, algebra, statistics, and their applications.
Ability to identify complex problems and review related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Ability to work independently and effectively organize and prioritize multiple tasks.
Ability to analyze and develop guidelines, procedures and systems to outline specific goals and implement plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish tasks.
Ability to manage a budget and work within the constraints of that budget.
Ability to analyze, interpret, and explain work related documents, policies, and procedures.
Position-Specific KSAs
Excellent communication skills.
Extreme attention to detail.
Ability to multi-task.
Skill in maintaining confidentiality.
Specialty Factors (Civil Service)
N/A
Preferred Qualifications (Civil Service)
Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, journals, procurement, cost center reconciliation, grants, foundation, general revenue and local cost center budgeting and allocation in a university setting.
Experience in QuickBooks preferred.
Experience with external audits preferred.