Accountant - Collections Services (Bursar)

• →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

• 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

Have a degree in accounting, finance, or related field

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.

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.

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.

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