Who we are

Why Rensselaer? Join Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's dynamic global community of changemaker including some of the world’s leading researchers, students, alumni, and faculty who ask the important questions and devise the scientific and technological innovations that make the world a better place for all of humanity.

Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and an IBM Quantum One computer - the first university-based quantum computer in the U.S. 

Are you ready to change the world? Apply now!

Job Summary

The Research Accountant will provide post-award financial analysis and support for research grants / contracts received by Rensselaer. The Research Accountant will review and analyze grant expenditures to ensure that the expenses are appropriate, allowable, within budget limits and paid in a timely manner. In addition, this position will monitor cost sharing, prepare fiscal reports for sponsoring agencies, review invoices, and will work with sponsors and project managers to close out grants in a timely manner.

Or, as a Sr. Research Accountant, the incumbent will provide advanced research financial support; interpreting complex university and government policies for faculty and the campus business community.

Minimum Qualifications

Research Accountant:

• Bachelor's degree in related field, such as; Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related
• Minimum 2 years of professional experience in a financially-oriented position
• Working knowledge of Banner or a similar ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system

Preferred Qualifications:

• Work experience in research administration, contract administration, or in a higher education environment 

Sr. Research Accountant: 

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field
• 3-5 years of professional experience in a financially-oriented position
• Working knowledge of Banner or a similar ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field
• Experience using Banner Finance or similar ERP system
• Work experience in research administration, contract administration, or in a higher education environment  

Relevant combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. 

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

•  Knowledge and understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of privileged documents and communication
• Requires excellent oral and written communication skills
• Requires strong organizational skills
• Requires excellent customer service skills
• Requires ability to work effectively under pressure and meet established goals and objectives
• Requires ability to work with a diverse population
• Requires strong computer skills and knowledge
• Accounting background with strong math skills
• Requires careful attention to detail; accuracy
• General knowledge of grants management issues preferred

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range:

Research Accountant: $60,000 - 65,000

Sr. Research Accountant: $70,000 - 75,000

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Rensselaer is recognized locally and nationally for the depth and breadth of its compensation and benefits program. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).

We welcome candidates who will bring diverse cultural, ethnic, national and international perspectives to Rensselaer’s work and campus communities.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity, Race/Gender/Veterans/Disability Employer.