Jobs - Job Details - Manager II, Accounting

Lead Financial Excellence as an Accounting Manager at CWI! 

Are you a detail‑driven financial professional with a passion for accuracy, leadership, and strategic impact? The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is seeking an experienced Accounting Manager to guide core accounting operations, support institutional decision‑making, and ensure the integrity of financial reporting that drives our mission forward. 

As a key leader within the Business Office, you’ll oversee general ledger management, grant accounting, and CWI Foundation accounting while mentoring a high-performing accounting team. Your expertise will support timely financial statements, successful audits, and compliance with industry standards—all within a collaborative, fast-paced environment. 

Why Join CWI? 

At CWI, we are committed to delivering exceptional education supported by strong financial stewardship and transparent reporting. As Accounting Manager, you’ll build cross-departmental partnerships, strengthen financial processes, and play a crucial role in supporting students, staff, and the community we serve. 

Benefits That Support You 

CWI offers one of the most competitive and comprehensive benefits packages in higher education, including: 

• Premium healthcare plans 

• 11%+ employer retirement contributions 

• Tuition discounts 

• Generous personal leave 

• Professional development opportunities 

Financial Leadership With Purpose 

• Oversee general ledger, grant, and foundation accounting functions 

• Ensure timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes 

• Manage financial reporting, audit preparation, and forecasting activities 

• Mentor and develop a skilled accounting team 

Collaborative & Impactful Work 

• Partner with Business Office leaders to support departmental goals 

• Respond to internal and external financial inquiries with accuracy and clarity 

• Compile and analyze system-generated reports for completeness and reliability 

• Coordinate annual audits and support the preparation of reports and footnotes 

Strategic Systems & Compliance Management 

• Maintain a deep understanding of financial reporting structures 

• Evaluate and enhance accounting procedures to optimize accuracy and efficiency 

• Test and assess system patches and upgrades to ensure financial system integrity 

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB, FASB, and federal regulations 

• Develop and maintain financial policies, procedures, and documentation 

Key Responsibilities 

Accounting Operations & Reporting 

• Oversee daily accounting activities across general ledger, grants, and foundation funds 

• Perform complex reconciliations and prepare recurring journal entries 

• Develop accurate monthly and ad hoc financial reports 

Leadership & Team Development 

• Hire, supervise, train, and evaluate accounting staff 

• Provide ongoing training to ensure consistent and accurate financial processing 

• Support employee growth through mentoring and coaching 

Compliance, Audit, & Process Improvement 

• Lead audit coordination and documentation preparation 

• Research technical accounting issues and apply updated standards 

• Recommend financial policies and support treasury and investment functions 

System Oversight 

• Test system updates and evaluate their impact on financial operations 

• Ensure integrity of financial data and reporting functions 

What We’re Looking For 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field 

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in accounting, including reconciliation, financial analysis, and audit support 

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a manager/supervisor position

• Strong understanding of GAAP, FASB/GASB, and federal compliance requirements 

• Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to develop and mentor staff 

• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and composure under tight deadlines 

• Strong analytical and communication abilities 

• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic environment 

• Preferred: Experience supervising professional staff 

• Preferred: Experience in higher education