Department: NIAR APEX

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Information

The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) invites applications for the position of Business Manager. This role is responsible for overseeing the daily financial and administrative operations for a portfolio of research centers, ensuring compliance with university policies and supporting the effective management of budgets, procurement, invoicing, travel, and property. The Business Manager serves as a key liaison between center leadership and central administrative units, providing accurate financial reporting, resolving operational issues, and contributing to long‑term planning and stability. Candidates with strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and experience in financial administration are encouraged to apply.

Job Summary

Manages the daily administrative and financial operations of a portfolio of centers, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, procurement cards, travel, property management, and management of each center's annual budget. Serves as an interface between the centers and central University administration. Responsible for troubleshooting issues, and identifying and communicating risks and issues.

Essential Functions

Manages accounts receivable such as preparing and submitting invoices; data entry; managing journal entries and deposits; resolving payment issues with customers and centers; following up on aging receivables; accounting for revenue sources; knowledge of F&A application and the components of the centers' billing rates. Manages accounts payable such as data entry; maintaining records; advising of proper policies and procedures; tracking and reporting monthly expenditures; inputting and adjusting budgets; receiving invoices and preparing reports and documents for payment. Manages property management and P-card coordination such as asset tagging and ensuring assets are coded correctly, reconciling statements and submitting reports and expenses as needed. Assists leadership with development of revenue projections and spend plans, entering yearly budget data into the financial system, and managing actuals against projections. Coordinates and prepares travel arrangements and reimbursements for center employees. Develops efficient and standardized policies and procedures. Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in business, management, accounting, or related field
• One (1) year of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting, and financial management practices.
• Knowledge of accounts receivable/payable processes, F&A application, and billing rate components.
• Knowledge of property management, asset tracking, and P‑card reconciliation procedures.
• Skill in preparing invoices, reconciliations, reports, and financial documentation with accuracy.
• Skill in using financial systems, spreadsheets, and administrative software.
• Skill in organizing work, managing multiple deadlines, and maintaining detailed records.
• Ability to analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and communicate risks or issues.
• Ability to interpret and apply university policies, administrative procedures, and compliance requirements.
• Ability to work independently, manage daily operations across multiple centers, and provide effective customer service.
• Ability to communicate clearly with leadership, customers, and administrative units.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to remain in a stationary position.