Accountant

Overview

An experienced and detail-oriented Accountant is sought to join the Financial Reporting and Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL). ARL Business Services supports research, scholarship, and creative endeavors by providing contracting, purchasing, accounting, and related services to all ARL programs. This role involves financial reporting, analysis, and broad support within ARL.

ARL is an authorized Department of Defense SkillBridge partner and encourages applications from transitioning military members.

Responsibilities

• Manage monthly financial reporting and reconciliation activities, including Net Funded Sponsored Awards (NFSA), cost centers, cost share funding, and "Sister Account" post-award reporting
• Prepare and analyze workforce, utilization, level of effort (LOE), deficit, backlog, and other core financial reports for senior leadership
• Maintain supporting documentation and update internal sites as needed
• Oversee reporting and reconciliation for ARL service centers, including hours validation and direct support to service center managers
• Ensure accurate application of burden rates and perform grant reconciliations
• Prepare and submit monthly CDRL 003 Government Use reports
• Support cross-functional finance and accounting activities such as labor, purchasing card, account reconciliations, and strategic planning
• Conduct advanced analysis of historical and operational data to develop recommendations that improve process efficiency and enhance financial reporting capabilities

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree with 6+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience in financial reconciliation and related processes
• Proven success in developing and delivering accurate reports supporting analysis and senior leadership decision-making
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively in multi-disciplinary, team-oriented environments
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment and work independently with minimal supervision

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with government and industrial grants and contracts
• Completion of Penn State ACES course
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Experience with commercial Enterprise Resource Planning systems such as SAP or Oracle e-Business Suite
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher; may be subject to government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if required

Location

This position can be fully remote, dependent on skillset and location, within Central Pennsylvania. Questions regarding flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Security and Background Checks

Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with organizational policies. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance. A pre-employment drug screen is also required.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $68,200.00 - $102,300.00 (may be impacted by geographic differential)
• Competitive benefits package for full-time employees including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time
• Generous 75% tuition discount available to employees and eligible spouses and children

Additional Information

The Applied Research Laboratory conducts research and develops innovative solutions to scientific, engineering, and technology challenges in support of the Navy, Department of Defense, and Intelligence Community.

Employment is subject to compliance with equal opportunity policies and applicable labor laws. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the application process.