Accountant - Collections Services, Bursar

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Accountant (Intermediate Professional) to join the Collections Services Team. Reporting to the Accounting Manager, Collections Services, this position is responsible for the collection, servicing, and reconciliation of past-due tuition balances, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loans. The accountant supports the accounting and operational functions of Collections Services by ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial transactions and records. Responsibilities include financial analysis and reporting, regulatory compliance, loan servicing oversight, process improvement, system support, and the development and maintenance of accounting procedures and internal controls.

This position requires thorough knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA).

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage University Loan and Federal Perkins Loan aging and third-party collection agency placements for the loan funds
• Coordinate the assignment of defaulted Federal Perkins Loans to the U.S. Department of Education while supporting collection efforts and maintaining acceptable default rates
• Maintain relationships with third-party collection agencies, including performance monitoring and evaluation
• Support tuition write-off analysis through receivable reporting, posting error resolution, account reconciliation, and financial analysis
• Coordinate with third-party servicers responsible for delinquent student accounts, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan programs across all Penn State campuses and affiliated entities
• Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual reports and analyses related to student account receivables, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan portfolios
• Coordinate 1098-E tax documents with the loan servicer
• Identify collection process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and customer service
• Maintain and support the implementation of the Collection Services Team’s business process documentation
• Monitor changes to university policies, internal controls, and federal and state regulations and communicate updates to leadership and staff
• Track team goal progress and provide input on performance toward annual objectives
• Assist with international tax reconciliations, posting corrections, and the Form 1042-S reporting process
• Support accounting operations by ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of financial records and transactions

The successful candidate for this position must possess:

• Strong accounting knowledge with experience reconciling complex accounts and resolving discrepancies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with university partners, external agencies, students, and families
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• High levels of professionalism, initiative, and accountability, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire, ECSI)
• Experience processing or supporting federal financial aid programs
• Experience in higher education financial operations, student receivables, loan servicing, or collections

Education

Have a degree in accounting, finance, or related field

Additional Information

The successful candidate must be eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default).

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree
1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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