Summary

For over 100 years, the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research (Institute) has served as one of the world’s most respected independent research institutions in plant and molecular science. Our scientists have turned a fundamental curiosity about plants into breakthroughs that changed the world, focused on three pillars of agriculture, human health, and the environment. Located near the beautiful Cayuga Lake on the picturesque campus of Cornell University in “gorges” Ithaca, New York, our unique headquarters is home to laboratories, greenhouses, administrative offices, and even an auditorium.

The Department of Finance provides centralized structure and support for the Institute’s financial operations, including: financial reporting; cash management; payroll; procurement; risk management; financial system administration and support; accounts payable; accounts receivable; and investments. We work hard, support one another, and remain committed to valuing and investing in our greatest resource — our people.  

The Staff Accountant is primarily responsible for managing the Institute’s daily accounting activities and performing general ledger accounting duties with a high degree of independence. This position contributes to all aspects of the Finance Department, including cash management, general ledger accounting, financial reporting, payroll integrations, and transactional accounting.

The Accountant ensures compliance with federal, state, and local financial requirements while providing accurate and timely financial information that supports organizational decision-making and operational effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting & Financial Reporting

· Perform monthly general ledger close activities, including journal entry preparation and posting.

· Complete monthly bank reconciliations and balance sheet reconciliations.

· Prepare and distribute monthly financial reports to Institute management.

· Analyze financial activity, investigate variances, and resolve discrepancies.

· Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation.

Budgeting & Audit Support

· Assist with the coordination and preparation of the Institute's annual budget.

· Compile annual indirect cost calculation data and supporting schedules for the IDC Rate Agreement.

· Participate in the preparation and coordination of annual financial audits.

· Support internal control and compliance initiatives.

Endowment, Investments & Fixed Assets

· Manage accounting and reporting activities for the Development function.

· Maintain accurate accounting and reconciliation of endowment and investment balances.

· Interpret broker statements and record investment transactions.

· Maintain fixed asset records, depreciation schedules, and supporting documentation.

· Conduct and oversee annual physical inventory inspections of fixed assets, including asset tagging and verification of new equipment purchases.

Compliance & Administrative Accounting

· Maintain integration between payroll, effort reporting, and accounting systems.

· Administer travel and employee expense reimbursement processing and accounting.

· Maintain vendor files and records while ensuring compliance with Institute policies and applicable regulations.

· Prepare and issue annual Forms 1099 and Form 1096 filings.

· Maintain visa-related tax reporting records and prepare/review Forms 1042-S.

· Assist with cash management and other Finance Department initiatives.

· Participate in process improvement efforts and accounting system enhancements.

· Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills & Competencies

· General Ledger Accounting

· Financial Reporting

· Account Reconciliation

· Budget Support and Analysis

· Fixed Asset Accounting

· Audit Preparation

· Regulatory Compliance

· Analytical Thinking

· Attention to Detail

· Time Management and Organization

· Strong Written and Verbal Communication

· Teamwork and Collaboration

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

This position is expected to work primarily onsite during the initial employment period to facilitate training, collaboration, knowledge transfer, and development of a comprehensive understanding of Institute operations and accounting processes.

Upon demonstrating proficiency and achieving a satisfactory level of mastery of assigned responsibilities, the employee may become eligible for a hybrid work arrangement consisting of approximately 20% to 40% remote work, subject to management approval, departmental requirements, business needs, and sustained performance.

Work is primarily performed in a professional office environment and involves extended periods of sitting and computer use. Occasional walking, standing, bending, and lifting of files or office materials may be required. Generally, no adverse environmental conditions are present.

Experience and Knowledge

· Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

· Minimum of two (2) years of accounting experience in a medium-sized organization.

· Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

Communication Skills

Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills required. Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization. Presentation skills are helpful for the success of this position.

Computer Skills

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Microsoft Excel

· Experience with accounting and financial software applications

· Experience with ERP systems preferred

· Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision) and/or Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central experience highly preferred