Budget and Finance Specialist I

Position Title:Budget and Finance Specialist I
Job Group:Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree
Job Description:
The College of Design seeks a qualified Budget and Finance Specialist I to support the financial operations and budget needs of assigned departments and college units.
The Budget and Finance Specialist plays an important role within the Administrative Services Office (ASO) of the College of Design. This position provides an opportunity to apply financial, analytical, and organizational skills to support effective budget management and financial decision-making. The ASO values the unique contributions of each team member and encourages an atmosphere that supports collaboration, growth, and professional development.
This role reports to the college’s Fiscal Officer and collaborates closely with department chairs and central finance offices. The position supports budgeting, financial reporting, expenditure monitoring, and reconciliation activities. The ideal candidate is adaptable, detail-oriented, collaborative, and communicative, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
Examples of Duties
Monitor and reconcile departmental and college budgets and expenditures.
Analyze budget-to-actual performance and identify variances.
Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning.
Review financial transactions for policy and funding compliance.
Prepare financial reports and support audits and financial reviews.
Track commitments, encumbrances, and planned expenditures.
Provide budget support and guidance to faculty, staff, and unit leadership.
Support special projects, course fees, and fee-for-service accounts.
Coordinate with central finance and university offices.
Provide backup support for the annual budget process.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Experience with budgeting, financial analysis, and monitoring expenditures.
Experience preparing financial reports and reconciling accounts.
Experience identifying and resolving financial discrepancies and budget variances.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Appointment Type:Regular
Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period
Time Type:Full time
Pay Grade:PS807
Original Posting Date:September 28, 2026
Posting Close Date:October 11, 2026
Job Requisition Number:R19996
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.