The Finance Specialist I serves as an entry-level professional and trusted financial services partner within the Business and Finance Shared Services (BFSS) department.
Perform professional-level exploratory work to facilitate a "smooth journey" for financial requests through the university’s complex approval channels.
Review request packages for completeness, ensures alignment with funding source intent, and prepares documentation for official university and Foundation oversight.
Responsible for becoming a process expert in 1–2 primary focus areas while proactively supporting USF’s mission of student success and research excellence through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Primary Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; OR
Equivalency (SB 1310): A high school diploma and four (4) years of directly related professional experience in financial services, business administration, or a similar field.
Experience: 0–2 years of professional experience, with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex digital platforms and interpret organizational policies.
Career-Oriented Mindset: Individuals seeking to transition from entry-level roles into a formalized professional career path in higher education administration.
Exceptional Communication: Prior experience in teaching, retail, or high-volume customer service where the ability to translate and explain complex information was a primary responsibility.
Aptitude for Structured Learning: A self-motivated desire to master new systems and processes, specifically through a commitment to completing the BFSS training curriculum.
Collaborative Spirit: A proven track record of working effectively within a team to achieve shared goals and building trust with stakeholders.
Analytical Curiosity: Recent graduates or professionals who demonstrate a strong interest in the "why" behind financial policies and a desire for continuous process improvement.

Finance Specialist I

Key skills