Financial Accountant

Overview

James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a Financial Accountant to join our team in the Financial and Business Services Directorate.

• Full-time, continuing position
• Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• HEWL 8: $108,964 - $125,126 plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
• 2.75% pay increase on 31 December 2025.

About the role

As a Financial Accountant, you'll play a vital role in maintaining the University's financial integrity and compliance through the delivery of professional and strategic financial and business management services across various financial functions including statutory accounts compilation, financial reporting for external funding agencies, reconciliation oversight, taxation compliance, and budgeting support. You will coordinate auditing activities, manage and resolve complex accounting and taxation queries, and provide contemporary advice in line with legislation and standards. Your contributions and expertise will enhance the University's financial success and integrity.

Qualifications, skills and experience

To succeed in this role, you'll need a postgraduate qualification (or progress toward) in financial/business management, accounting, or commerce as well as current membership with a professional accounting body (e.g., Certified Practising Accountant or Chartered Accountant). Proven experience in financial accounting, a detailed understanding of Australian accounting standards, and high-level analytical skills are essential. You'll bring a detail-oriented mindset, exceptional organisational skills, and the ability to meet competing deadlines. You must have high-level communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and professionally.

Shape your future with JCU

At JCU we're not just shaping minds; we're shaping the future. As Australia's only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world's tropical regions to prosper. With our main campuses located in the vibrant and diverse tropics of Northern Queensland, JCU is at the forefront of research and education in areas including marine biology, environmental science, tropical and rural health, and more.

Find out more about JCU, our Careers and our locations.

Why JCU?

JCU offers a dynamic and culturally diverse workplace where your ideas are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work-life balance is respected. Working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect, we support and empower our people through the provisions of:

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 36.25-hour full-time working week
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
• Up to 6 months paid parental leave or 12 months at half pay
• A range of flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Staff study assistance and paid study leave
• Ongoing professional development support
• Fitness Passport
• Corporate discount on health insurance
• Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
• Well-equipped modern campus facilities and contemporary workspaces with access to on-site childcare, medical services, gym and cafes.

How to apply and contact details

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

Click the 'apply' button, create an applicant profile and follow the steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success.

Applications close on Sunday 21 September at 11:55 PM AEST.

Please note, as the role requires an urgent commencement, we are seeking applications from candidates who currently hold valid Australian work rights.

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Rachel Knight on (07) 4781 4525 or email rachel.knight@jcu.edu.au.

About our process

At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.

Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.

What matters to us at JCU

• Our People - Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
• Our Education - Knowledge has the power to change lives
• Our Place - the Tropics and beyond
• Our Research - a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.

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