Business Services Specialist - Beckman Institute (Hybrid) Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology
Job SummarySupport the non-grant account portfolio for the Beckman Institute in collaboration with other members of the Finance Team. This role is responsible for analyzing, monitoring and documenting business transactions in a high-volume environment. This role requires financial accuracy, compliance with university policies and effective communication with stakeholders across the institute and campus.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct the accounting activities of the Beckman Institute state, ICR, gift and plant funds in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and the goals of the Beckman Institute and University of Illinois. Review and approve the use of non-grant funds for expenses such as employee appointments, i-Buy orders, Emburse expense and travel reimbursements while maintaining an understanding of and applying Illinois, University, campus and departmental regulations, procedures and policies. Terminate CFOP segments, correct rogue transactions, identify funds which are overdrawn and take the appropriate action to resolve the issue.
- Contribute to the monthly billing processes for Beckman service facilities and Cafe operations by maintaining documentation, inputting and reviewing billing data, processing billings, contacting external units for CFOP updates and verifying invoices to support accurate billing. Verify invoices monthly for items such as tank rentals, Cafe charges and other service-related expenses to ensure billing accuracy and proper documentation.
- Respond to and resolve inquiries received through the Finance inbox related to procurement, CFOP management, reimbursements and general financial operations. Provide guidance and interpretation of university policies and procedures to faculty, staff and departmental stakeholders while ensuring compliance with institutional requirements. Assist in resolving a variety of issues. Manage assigned Finance inbox communications by categorizing emails appropriately, maintaining organized records through proper filing and disposing of non-record communications in accordance with departmental practices.
- Manage BARS (Beckman Accounting and Reporting System) functions for departmental CFOPs, including adding, terminating and freezing accounts while maintaining accurate records and documentation to support proper tracking, compliance and alignment with departmental budgets and financial policies. Review and validate newly established CFOPs in BARS to ensure accurate setup of titles, comments, assigned roles and related information, and identify and resolve discrepancies or unauthorized ("rogue") CFOPs. Generate monthly reports and manage CFOP access for personnel.
- Perform the monthly reconciliation of BANNER financial statements, including filing, maintaining and matching supporting documentation. Review statements for compliance with University policy and fund intent, identify and correct errors and counsel individual units to avoid repeated errors. Ensure that BANNER statements reconcile to BARS for accurate financial reporting to faculty and Beckman management. Answer questions and counsel faculty and staff about their financial statements. During the reconciliation process, identify erroneous charges and inappropriate expenses and work with integrated units to appropriately resolve these issues.
- Develop, update and maintain internal job aids, templates and reference materials for the Beckman Business Office to promote consistent processes and support staff training and onboarding. Monitor and evaluate business office workflows and procedures to identify opportunities for improved efficiency, effectiveness and resource utilization while maintaining a high standard of customer service. Serve on departmental and campus committees as needed, representing the Beckman Business Office, including participation in groups such as the BAC.
- Prepare and process journal vouchers and PZAREDS transactions for departmental accounts within the BANNER financial system as needed.
- Prepare payments to foreign nationals. Process student awards in a timely and accurate manner. Ensure all required documentation is collected and maintain accurate records of all transactions and ensure proper processing within established financial systems and deadlines.
- Provide backup support for team members during absences to ensure continuity of operations. Perform other duties as assigned to support team and departmental needs.
- Participate in continuing professional development (e.g., conferences, seminars, webinars, etc.) to improve knowledge and judgment.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting, management or a field related to the position.
- Two years of professional business, financial and/or managerial work experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with University of Illinois policies and systems.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Ability to perform efficiently and effectively in fast-paced, multi-task situations where deadlines are frequently imposed.
- Detail oriented.
- Knowledge of OBFS policies and procedures relating to travel, purchasing, reimbursements and other applicable functions related to duties as assigned.
- Extensive knowledge of University of Illinois applications (e.g., BANNER, i-Buy, P-card, Emburse).
- Knowledge of debits and credits.
- Ability to work with database, spreadsheet, word processing and electronic communication programs.
Appointment Information
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 after the posting period closes. The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $65,000/year. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, collective bargaining agreements and budget constraints. This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization. For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx. Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on July 7, 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 jobs@beckman.illinois.edu. 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 accessibility@illinois.edu. Requisition ID: 1036827
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
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