Financial Analyst
Boston, MA - USA
Job Summary
About the Opportunity
Develops and maintains financial models that support the universitys budgeting forecasting and long-range planning efforts. Pulls and analyzes data across multiple university systems applying a sharp eye for accuracy and a problem-solving mindset to dig into discrepancies wherever they turn up. Builds and maintains Tableau dashboards that keep leadership informed on budget headcount and operating KPIs. Connects the data back to whats actually happening across the universitys campuses keeping dashboards and models grounded in real operations. Works across departments and functions to support university-wide financial priorities and stays open to new tools and approaches including AI-assisted tools like Claude as reporting needs evolve.
- Knowledge of financial analysis budgeting and forecasting principles as normally acquired through a Bachelors degree in Finance Accounting Economics or a related field and 2-4 years of relevant experience
- Ability to use statistical analysis simulations predictive modeling or other methods to analyze information and develop solutions that support the universitys mission
- Advanced proficiency in Excel including complex formulas and financial modeling
- Ability to write and execute SQL queries to extract and analyze data from relational databases
- Ability to build and maintain dashboards in Tableau or similar BI tools (e.g. Power BI)
- Ability to apply data visualization best practices to turn complex data into clear compelling visual narratives for audiences with varying levels of technical expertise
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and a demonstrated focus on data accuracy
- Ability to communicate complex data and analysis clearly both in writing and verbally to audiences with varying levels of technical expertise
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines working both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Preferred
- Knowledge of ERP/financial systems (e.g. Workday Adaptive Planning Oracle or similar)
- Working knowledge of Python or R for data automation and analysis
- Experience with cloud data platforms (e.g. Snowflake)
- Familiarity with AI-assisted tools (e.g. Claude) for data analysis forecasting or process automation
- Genuine interest in and commitment to Northeasterns mission
Data Aggregation & Analysis
- Pull clean and consolidate financial enrollment headcount and operational data from multiple university systems (Workday Snowflake and others) into unified reliable data sets
- Identify and resolve data inconsistencies gaps and anomalies at the source before they reach downstream reporting
- Build and maintain automated data pipelines and queries (SQL Python) to reduce manual data pulls and improve turnaround time on recurring reporting needs
- Partner with system administrators and data owners to understand source system logic and ensure data is interpreted and mapped correctly
Reporting & Dashboard Development
- Design and maintain Tableau dashboards that translate complex financial and operational data into clear actionable views for leadership
- Distill analysis into concise decision-ready summaries highlighting key trends risks and opportunities rather than raw data
- Partner with stakeholders to understand reporting needs and iterate on dashboard design as priorities shift
Financial Modeling & Forecasting
- Build and maintain financial models supporting budgeting forecasting and long-range planning
- Conduct scenario and sensitivity analysis to inform planning assumptions and decision-making
- Support annual budget development and periodic forecast updates in partnership with departmental leadership
Cross-Functional Support & Process Improvement
- Collaborate with departments across the university to support financial planning needs tied to the broader institutional mission
- Evaluate and adopt AI-assisted tools (e.g. Claude) and other automation technologies to improve efficiency and accuracy of financial processes
- Document processes and methodologies to support consistency and knowledge transfer across the team
Position Type
FinanceAdditional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical vision dental paid time off tuition assistance wellness & life retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race religion color national origin age sex sexual orientation disability status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
109SExpected Hiring Range:
$67855.00 - $95845.00With the pay range(s) shown above the starting salary will depend on several factors which may include your education experience location knowledge and expertise and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Founded in 1898, Northeastern is a global, experiential, research university built on a tradition of engagement with the world.