Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University→
Purchase Request Financial Shared Services… at Applied… · Universit…
Skills
Job Description
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete theinternal 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.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Office of Central Procurement is seeking a dynamic Financial Shared Services Associate to join the Purchase Request (PR) Team. The PR team processes all non-catalog purchases made across Penn State. Financial Shared Services Associates are aligned to specific units across the University to ensure personalized and consistent support.
Responsibilities Include:
- Serve as a central hub member for the Purchase Request team
- Receive and process non-catalog requests for purchase orders
- Track the progress, gather required documentation and assist unit initiators in understanding and navigating the purchase request process
- Review all financial transactions for compliance with University policies, procedures, documentation standards, and regulatory guidelines
- Provide excellent customer service to internal stakeholders through clear communication and timely issue resolution; assist in monitoring internal and external customer satisfaction
- Reconcile discrepancies and investigate transactional anomalies or errors
- Execute financial approvals on designated transactions
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date transaction records in financial systems
- Assist with internal and external audits by providing transaction documentation and reports
- Maintain alignment and communication with specific unit teams to ensure accurate and responsive support
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation in transaction workflows
- Maintain confidentiality and integrity of financial data at all times
- Provide training to new staff members as directed
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. After the initial training period which is full-time onsite, typically requires 3-4 days in office per week at the University Park campus in Central Pennsylvania. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate with coworkers within and outside of the Procurement unit
- Excellent customer service skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive documents and situations
- Demonstrated ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- Effective decision-making skills
- Excellent organizational skills and problem-solving abilities
- High level of accuracy in work and attention to detail
Please submit a cover letter along with a resume when applying for full consideration.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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 $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.
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.