Bursar Jobs
Bursar jobs are open across higher education, K-12 school districts, and nonprofit institutions, at levels from entry-level accounts clerk to director of student financial services, with specializations in student account management, tuition collections, and financial aid disbursement. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Accountant (Intermediate Professional) to join the Collections Services Team . Reporting to the Accounting Manager, Collections Services, this position is responsible for the collection, servicing, and reconciliation of past-due tuition balances, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loans. The accountant supports the accounting and operational functions of Collections Services by ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial transactions and records. Responsibilities include financial analysis and reporting, regulatory compliance, loan servicing oversight, process improvement, system support, and the development and maintenance of accounting procedures and internal controls.
This position requires thorough knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA).
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage University Loan and Federal Perkins Loan aging and third-party collection agency placements for the loan funds
- Coordinate the assignment of defaulted Federal Perkins Loans to the U.S. Department of Education while supporting collection efforts and maintaining acceptable default rates
- Maintain relationships with third-party collection agencies, including performance monitoring and evaluation
- Support tuition write-off analysis through receivable reporting, posting error resolution, account reconciliation, and financial analysis
- Coordinate with third-party servicers responsible for delinquent student accounts, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan programs across all Penn State campuses and affiliated entities
- Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual reports and analyses related to student account receivables, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan portfolios
- Coordinate 1098-E tax documents with the loan servicer
- Identify collection process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and customer service
- Maintain and support the implementation of the Collection Services Team’s business process documentation
- Monitor changes to university policies, internal controls, and federal and state regulations and communicate updates to leadership and staff
- Track team goal progress and provide input on performance toward annual objectives
- Assist with international tax reconciliations, posting corrections, and the Form 1042-S reporting process Support accounting operations by ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of financial records and transactions
The successful candidate for this position must possess:
- Strong accounting knowledge with experience reconciling complex accounts and resolving discrepancies
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with university partners, external agencies, students, and families
- Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
- High levels of professionalism, initiative, and accountability, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire, ECSI)
- Experience processing or supporting federal financial aid programs Experience in higher education financial operations, student receivables, loan servicing, or collections
Education
Have a degree in accounting, finance, or related field
Additional Information
The successful candidate must be eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default).
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
NoneBACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Office of the Bursar is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Accountant (Intermediate Professional) to join the Collections Services Team . Reporting to the Accounting Manager, Collections Services, this position is responsible for the collection, servicing, and reconciliation of past-due tuition balances, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loans. The accountant supports the accounting and operational functions of Collections Services by ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial transactions and records. Responsibilities include financial analysis and reporting, regulatory compliance, loan servicing oversight, process improvement, system support, and the development and maintenance of accounting procedures and internal controls.
This position requires thorough knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA).
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage University Loan and Federal Perkins Loan aging and third-party collection agency placements for the loan funds
- Coordinate the assignment of defaulted Federal Perkins Loans to the U.S. Department of Education while supporting collection efforts and maintaining acceptable default rates
- Maintain relationships with third-party collection agencies, including performance monitoring and evaluation
- Support tuition write-off analysis through receivable reporting, posting error resolution, account reconciliation, and financial analysis
- Coordinate with third-party servicers responsible for delinquent student accounts, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan programs across all Penn State campuses and affiliated entities
- Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual reports and analyses related to student account receivables, Federal Perkins Loans, and University-funded loan portfolios
- Coordinate 1098-E tax documents with the loan servicer
- Identify collection process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and customer service
- Maintain and support the implementation of the Collection Services Team’s business process documentation
- Monitor changes to university policies, internal controls, and federal and state regulations and communicate updates to leadership and staff
- Track team goal progress and provide input on performance toward annual objectives
- Assist with international tax reconciliations, posting corrections, and the Form 1042-S reporting process Support accounting operations by ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of financial records and transactions
The successful candidate for this position must possess:
- Strong accounting knowledge with experience reconciling complex accounts and resolving discrepancies
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with university partners, external agencies, students, and families
- Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
- High levels of professionalism, initiative, and accountability, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Experience with ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Flywire, ECSI)
- Experience processing or supporting federal financial aid programs Experience in higher education financial operations, student receivables, loan servicing, or collections
Education
Have a degree in accounting, finance, or related field
Additional Information
The successful candidate must be eligible to obtain access to U.S. Department of Education platforms as required (e.g., no personal or student loans in default).
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions regarding flexible work options should be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
NoneBACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
See All 8 Bursar Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Bursar JobsBursar Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in bursar jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field
- Experience with student information systems such as Banner or PeopleSoft
- Knowledge of Title IV federal financial aid regulations and compliance requirements
- Proficiency in accounts receivable, billing, and payment reconciliation processes
- Strong customer service skills for resolving student and family account inquiries
- Familiarity with internal audit procedures and institutional financial reporting standards
Tips for Your Bursar Job Search
Tailor your resume for fund accounting
Bursar roles are distinct from general accounting jobs. Highlight experience with student account ledgers, tuition payment processing, and reconciling financial aid disbursements. Hiring managers scan for these terms specifically, so generic finance language won't get you past an initial screen.
List every student information system you know
Employers routinely filter for candidates familiar with Ellucian Banner, PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, or Workday Student. Name each system by its full product name on your resume, even if your experience was limited to one module or one institution.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists bursar openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by institution size and type
A community college bursar position involves far more direct student interaction than a research university controller's office role. When searching, filter by institution type so your cover letter can speak precisely to the volume and complexity of the accounts you'd manage.
Prepare a scenario answer about collections disputes
Interviewers for bursar roles almost always ask how you handle a student or parent disputing a charge. Prepare a specific example that shows you followed institutional policy, documented the interaction, and reached a resolution without escalating unnecessarily.
Negotiate start date around fiscal-year close
Most institutions run on academic fiscal years ending in June or July. If you receive an offer in spring, a delayed start may be welcome on both sides, since onboarding during a billing cycle close is disruptive. Raising this in negotiations shows institutional awareness and usually lands well.
Bursar Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most bursars?
The most active employers for bursars right now are Mercer University, Paul Quinn College, and Penn State University, and the most openings are in Texas, Georgia, and Washington, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Community colleges and large public university systems tend to post the most consistently throughout the year.
How many bursar jobs are remote?
About 33% of bursar openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the in-person demands of cash handling, in-window student service, and on-campus compliance audits. Sub-specialties focused on reporting, reconciliation, and back-office billing processing are most likely to offer hybrid or remote flexibility.
How do you become a bursar?
Start with a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, then gain experience in accounts receivable, billing, or financial aid processing at an educational institution. Move into a bursar's office as an accounts clerk or coordinator, build familiarity with student information systems, and develop working knowledge of federal Title IV regulations. Progression to a bursar or director role typically follows demonstrated accuracy, compliance awareness, and supervisory experience.
Can you get hired as a bursar with little experience?
Entry-level roles in a bursar's office, such as student accounts representative or billing coordinator, are realistic starting points with limited direct experience. Institutions often value candidates who have worked in customer-facing financial roles, even outside higher education. Demonstrating comfort with payment processing systems, attention to detail in reconciliation work, and familiarity with regulatory compliance will strengthen an application at the junior level.
What does the bursar interview process look like?
Most institutions conduct an initial phone or video screen focused on your financial systems experience and familiarity with student account workflows. A second round typically involves a panel with the controller, registrar, or financial aid director and includes scenario-based questions about resolving billing disputes, managing holds, and handling federal aid disbursements. Some institutions ask candidates to complete a short skills assessment covering reconciliation or compliance scenarios before a final offer.
Where can I find and apply to bursar jobs?
You can find and apply to bursar jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from institutions across the United States. Search for roles that match your experience level and specialization, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
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