Finance Specialist

University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Accounting & Finance

Lincoln, NE, USA

USD 51,961-51,961 / year

Posted on Aug 1, 2026
Working Title Finance Specialist
Department AVE Business Center-3026
Requisition Number S_260597
Posting Open Date 07/31/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 08/17/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
Join the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) Business Centers, where we strive to deliver exceptional service, innovative solutions, and responsible stewardship that advance IANR’s teaching, research, and extension missions.

As a Finance Specialist, with focus on cost accounting and contract administration; you will serve as a trusted resource to departments, providing expert guidance and support across a broad range of financial functions.
Responsibilities include:
  • Serving as a primary resource for service center and contract administration across IANR, providing strategic guidance and ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures.
  • Partnering with departments to develop, manage, and improve service center operations and contractual agreements, promoting effective business practices and sound financial stewardship.
  • Working with faculty and staff to forecast expenses and calculate appropriate service rates based on anticipated activity. Regularly review budget to actual amounts to determine if established rates need to be adjusted.
  • Managing an assigned portfolio, advising on financial management, funding strategies, and compliance across a variety of funding sources including but not limited to state accounts, grants, service centers, and revolving accounts.
  • Reviewing and coordinating complex financial activities, including travel, contracts, journal entries, accounts receivable, capital assets, and other financial transactions.

We seek a collaborative, service-oriented professional with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The successful candidate builds trusted relationships, communicates effectively with diverse stakeholders, and exercises sound judgment to make and communicate decisions that support responsible stewardship, compliance, and exceptional service.

This position is located on UNL’s East Campus in Lincoln, NE. Following an initial training period of up to six months, this position may be eligible for a hybrid work schedule, with a minimum of 3 days per week worked on campus. Hybrid arrangements are subject to supervisor approval and are determined based on operational needs.

Note: Sponsorship will not be offered for this position.

About Us
At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
  • Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
  • Robust retirement plans with university match

Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree plus (4) years of related experience in financial management, accounting, grant administration, or related field. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
  • Experience working with SAP or another large integrated financial system.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, including Excel for data analysis and reporting.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and university policies.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive, collaborative relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work, manage multiple deadlines, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
The following qualifications are preferred but not required:
  • Experience with grant, project, or cost accounting.
  • Experience providing consultative support, training, or mentoring.
  • Experience in a higher education environment.
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No
Criminal History Background Check Required Yes
Posted Salary $51,961/yr minimum
How to Apply
Click on “Apply for this Job”. You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your resume, cover letter and list of references as three (3) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Jodi Mackin
jmackin1@unl.edu
Job Category (old) Managerial/Professional
Job Type Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date