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Financial Assistant 2
  • Job Number: 24258
  • Functional Area: Finance/Accounting
  • Department: Haystack Observatory
  • School Area: VP Research
  • Employment Type: Full-Time
  • Employment Category: Non-Exempt
  • Visa Sponsorship Available: No
  • Schedule: M-F


Job Description

FINANCIAL ASSISTANT 2, Haystack Observatory, to serve as part of the finance team.  Will support several principal investigators (PIs) and small- and large-scale research projects by handling complex procurement of goods and services.  Responsibilities include researching appropriate vendors, gathering quotes, and securing parts, materials (e.g., specific machine pieces, sheet metal, printed circuit boards, electrical components, and chassis and panels), and supplies necessary for assembly and/or inhouse fabrication of equipment; reviewing, processing, and monitoring financial transactions for over sixty accounts; researching and resolving financial discrepancies, verifying and approving credit card charges, approving requisitions and invoices, and ensuring purchase orders and invoices are reflected accurately and charged appropriately; maintaining account information, preparing journal vouchers, distributing reports, and assisting research staff with fiscal issues and complex procurement needs; interacting with MIT departments to obtain required documentation and backup in compliance with Institute and departmental policies and procedures; and assisting with special projects as needed.  This position consistently requires making sound detailed decisions based on broad general guidelines. 

Job Requirements
 REQUIRED:  high school diploma or its equivalent; at least three years' accounting/finance experience; excellent analytical, organizational, problem-solving, customer service, interpersonal, and written and oral communication skills; proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables; discretion with confidential data; self-motivation; attention to detail; ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines and work with minimal supervision; ability to deal with vendors and negotiate purchases of goods and services; an interest in gaining technical knowledge; and willingness to assume new responsibilities as needed.  PREFERRED:  associate’s/bachelor’s degree; database management, Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Word experience; and experience with “Buy-to-Pay” purchasing.  Job #24258-5

Rate of pay:  $25.00 - 29.00/hour

Haystack Observatory is located in Westford, MA

7/26/24