Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.

The Department of Economics is looking for an Office Assistant IV to provide accounting, operational, and administrative support for a large, high-volume academic department. This position serves as a support to the department's Fiscal Officer, supporting travel, reimbursements, vouchers, budget tracking, and financial compliance, while also performing essential operational and administrative functions required to support faculty, staff, and instructional activities. The role requires accuracy, organization, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced academic environment.

Typical Duties

Accounting & Financial Support (55%)

• Serves as support to the Fiscal Officer for assigned financial functions.
• Prepares, audits, and processes travel authorizations, reimbursements, invoices, deposits, and vouchers in accordance with MSU policies and procedures.
• Reviews financial documents for accuracy, compliance, and proper documentation; resolves discrepancies as needed.
• Maintains accounting records, spreadsheets, and supporting documentation; assists with budget tracking and reporting.
• Prepares financial reports.
• Provides guidance to faculty, staff, and visitors regarding travel, reimbursement, and accounting procedures.
  
  

Operational & Administrative Support (45%)

• Coordinates administrative operations supporting faculty, instructional staff, and departmental activities.
• Schedules rooms for seminars, meetings, review sessions, and exams using university scheduling systems; maintains shared calendars.
• Coordinates logistics for seminars, conferences, and special events, including travel and visitor arrangements.
• Supports instructional operations by coordinating exam materials, makeup exams, and departmental communications.
• Maintains departmental records and documentation; prepares correspondence, spreadsheets, and reports.
• Serves as front-line administrative support by responding to inquiries, assisting visitors, and supporting general office operations.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired in the first two or three years in college, technical school or related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in maintaining account ledgers, departmental operations, employment, or in performing tasks related to the area of employment; experience in word processing, editing and composing correspondence, and maintaining spreadsheets and/or databases; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Knowledge of PowerBI, KFS, and Concur.
Experience in a university or public-sector environment.
Familiarity with MSU financial systems and travel reimbursement processes.
Strong Excel and spreadsheet skills.
Demonstrated ability to balance accounting responsibilities with operational and administrative support.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Cover Letter
• CV/Resume
• Contact information of three professional references with emails

Special Instructions

All applicants must apply online at https://careers.msu.edu.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://econ.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends March 3, 2026, 11:55 PM