Financial & Tax Compliance Accountant

Financial & Tax Compliance Accountant

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Financial & Tax Compliance Accountant.

Position Details

Location : Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001, United States

Division : Office of the Controller

Position Type : Staff

Employment Status : Full Time

Grant Funded : No

Salary Range : 53,000.00 - 53,000.00

Pay Grade : E11

Posting Close Date : Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and list of three professional references with your application. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

Provides comprehensive accounting and compliance support for the Controller's Office, with a primary focus on transactions involving international students, employees, and vendors. Ensures timely and accurate processing of accounting transactions while maintaining strict adherence to GAAP standards, GASB reporting requirements, and federal tax regulations. This position serves as a key liaison for campus, providing guidance and training to stakeholders, and supports reconciliation and reporting functions that contribute to the integrity and transparency of the University's financial operations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist foreign international students on onboarding, documentation, payroll inquiries, and Social Security card distribution, ensuring compliance with federal requirements and a smooth transition into the University system.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for international students and vendors in systems such as Tax Navigator, FNIS, SOAR, SOAR-Fin, and SOARHR; verify data integrity and ensure compliance with federal tax laws and treaty benefits.
• Process and reconcile 1042 payments weekly, prepare and file IRS forms (1042, 1042-S, 1042-T), and review associated documentation (Forms 8233, W-9, W-8BEN, W-8BENE) to ensure timely reporting and adherence to IRS guidelines.
• Oversee the approval and setup of international vendors, monitor payroll compliance lists (including Resident Alien Do Not Maintain), and conduct regular reviews of FICA exemptions to maintain accuracy in employee tax records.
• Perform reconciliation of designated accounts, including debit card accounts related to Athletics, and prepare supporting documentation for audits and financial reporting.
• Develop and deliver training sessions and communications for new hires, colleagues, and stakeholders on various financial processes, ensuring consistent understanding of compliance obligations and accounting practices.
• Contribute to special projects, year-end activities, and process improvements within the Controller's Office to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service delivery.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Accounting, Finance, or related field and three (3) to five (5) years accounting experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Preferred Qualifications

Understanding of IRS regulations related to nonresident alien taxation (e.g., 1042 series, FICA exemptions, treaty benefits).

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE / VETS / DISABILITY.