Carnegie Mellon University · 1 month ago
Principal Financial Analyst
Pittsburgh, PA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
5+ years expCarnegie Mellon University is a prestigious institution known for its research and development efforts. The Principal Financial Analyst will manage and guide financial activities at the Software Engineering Institute, ensuring compliance and strategic value in financial operations while leading a team of analysts.
EducationHigher EducationUniversities
No H1B
Security Clearance Required
Responsibilities
Oversee and perform in-depth financial analyses, including variance analysis, rate projections, and key performance indicators
Prepare, review, and present regular financial reports and dashboards for SEI senior management and stakeholders, highlighting key trends, risks, and recommendations
Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process for assigned programs, partnering with program directors and managers to ensure accurate projections and financial alignment
Manage the full financial lifecycle from initial budget development through execution, monitoring, and closeout
Develop and maintain long-term financial plans that align with SEI’s strategic and operational objectives
Provide data-driven insights and financial guidance to senior leadership to inform strategic decisions and resource allocation
Supervise and mentor a team of financial analysts, setting priorities, reviewing work, and fostering professional development
Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and collaboration across the financial team
Ensure adherence to OMB Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and SEI contract requirements
Monitor expenditures and cost allocations to ensure compliance with sponsor regulations, federal guidelines, and institutional policy
Identify and mitigate financial risks through proactive analysis and control processes
Partner with internal stakeholders across program, contracts, and accounting functions to ensure coordinated financial management
Translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-financial audiences
Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and reporting through automation, standardization, and systems enhancements
Contribute to ERP and financial system upgrades or integrations to support evolving business needs
Coordinate team responses to internal and external audit requests
Develop and monitor corrective action plans as necessary
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial analysis, budgeting, or forecasting — ideally within a research, nonprofit, higher education, or FFRDC environment
Demonstrated leadership experience with direct supervision or mentorship of financial staff
Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with deep understanding of financial management principles
Strong proficiency in Excel and experience with enterprise financial systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday, etc.)
You will be subject to a background investigation and must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
Tuition benefits
Ample paid time off
Observed holidays
Life and accidental death and disability insurance
Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
Access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs
Fitness center access
Company
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university that offers degrees in technology, arts, and various other fields.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$488.58MKey Investors
ICANNAppalachian Regional CommissioneBPF Foundation
2025-05-29Grant· $0.45M
2024-09-05Grant· $0.5M
2024-08-29Grant· $0.05M
Leadership Team
Angela Blanton
Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Amy Coutu
Assistant Vice President, Enterprise Applications
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