Financial Analyst

Stanbridge University is seeking a Financial Analyst to support financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis across multiple campus locations. This is a fully on-site role based in Irvine, CA, requiring in-person attendance five days per week. The position supports a multi-campus environment where financial and operational data is distributed across locations and systems.

This position works closely with the CFO and accounting team and requires strong analytical capability, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach to gathering, validating, and interpreting data. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver who can navigate ambiguity, follow through across departments, and translate data into actionable insights.

Key Responsibilities

Multi-Campus Financial Analysis

• Analyze financial performance across multiple campuses and operational units
• Allocate shared expenses using consistent and supportable methodologies
• Identify trends, variances, and key cost drivers across locations

Data Gathering & Validation

• Collect financial and operational data from multiple internal sources, including accounting systems, payroll platforms, and departmental inputs
• Perform data validation, reconciliation, and quality checks across systems that are not fully integrated
• Partner with departments such as HR, payroll, financial aid, and operations to obtain and clarify required data

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Assist in the development of budgets across multiple campuses and consolidated operations
• Monitor actual versus budget performance and investigate variances
• Support rolling forecasts and scenario-based financial planning

Payroll & Revenue Analysis

• Analyze payroll data across campuses, including allocations, trends, and cost drivers
• Extract, validate, and analyze revenue data, including student-related income streams
• Identify inconsistencies, gaps, and opportunities for improved reporting accuracy

Reporting & KPI Development

• Prepare monthly financial reporting packages and analysis for leadership
• Build and maintain Excel-based financial models and reporting tools
• Develop and track key performance indicators (e.g., cost per student, campus-level margins, efficiency metrics)

Process Improvement & Standardization

• Identify inefficiencies in data collection, reporting, and financial processes
• Recommend and support implementation of improvements to enhance data accuracy and automation
• Assist in standardizing financial practices and reporting across campuses

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field
• 2–5 years of financial analysis experience, preferably in multi-location or decentralized environments
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial modeling
• Comfort using AI tools and automation (e.g., Excel AI features, ChatGPT, or similar) to support data analysis, reporting efficiency, and process improvement
• Experience working with incomplete or non-centralized data sets and reconciling across systems
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and follow through on data requests
• Must be able to work on-site in Irvine, CA five days per week (no remote or hybrid option)

Preferred

• Experience in higher education, healthcare, or other regulated, multi-site organizations
• Exposure to financial aid processes, including Title IV funding, grants, scholarships, or military benefits
• Familiarity with student-based revenue models or enrollment-driven financial structures
• Experience with accounting systems such as QuickBooks or similar platforms

Compensation

• $75,000–$90,000 annually
• Compensation is based on education, experience, and internal equity considerations

Role Expectations

• This is a hands-on role that supports financial operations in a growing, multi-campus environment
• Success requires strong analytical thinking, persistence in gathering and validating data, and the ability to work effectively in partnership with finance leadership
• Leverage available tools, including AI and automation, to improve efficiency in data gathering, analysis, and reporting processes
• Candidates should be comfortable navigating ambiguity and proactively identifying and resolving data gaps

Conditions of Employment

• A job-related assessment may be required during the interview process
• Must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be physically present in the office (unless otherwise noted)
• Employment verification will be conducted to validate work experience per accreditation standards
• Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check
• Official transcripts are required prior to hire; degrees earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions

Work Environment

• Standard office environment with occasional interaction across departments
• Duties are typically performed while sitting at a desk or computer workstation
• Subject to frequent interruptions, noise, and demanding timelines

Physical Demands

• Regularly sits for extended periods
• Proficient in using electronic keyboards and office equipment
• Effective verbal communication via phone and in person
• Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing 10–25 pounds as needed

Employee Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Exciting university events
• Seasonal health and wellness initiatives
• Work/Life Balance programs
• Onsite wellness program
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

Institutional Values

• Diversity and Inclusion: Stanbridge University is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that reflects diverse backgrounds and perspectives
• Innovation and Technology: We integrate advanced technology and hands-on learning to enhance student outcomes
• Community Engagement: Through initiatives such as Stanbridge outREACH, students contribute to local and global communities

Equal Opportunity Employer

Stanbridge University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on any protected basis. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.