Finance and Business Operations FWS Intern

Job DescriptionOrganization Summary:The University of South Florida (USF) Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) provides agile, best-value engineering solutions to enhance the performance and effectiveness of its sponsors, including the Department of Defense; other federal, state, and local agencies; and industry. These engineering solutions include hardware-and-software-based research, advanced technology development, prototypes, and technical services.This internship program is specific to USF-IAE.The Finance & Business Operations Intern will provide part-time support to the Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) Finance Team while gaining hands-on experience in a professional, compliance-driven environment. This role is designed for students seeking practical exposure to finance operations, workflow improvement initiatives, reporting, compliance support, and business process optimization within a federally funded research and contracting organization.Under the supervision of the Finance Team, the intern will assist with operational finance and administrative activities while supporting initiatives focused on improving workflow efficiency, operational consistency, and internal business processes. The position offers valuable experience in financial operations, process documentation, reporting, internal controls, and workflow modernization aligned with University policies and federal regulations.Responsibilities may include maintaining reporting trackers and documentation, supporting Deltek Costpoint operational activities, assisting with credit utilization monitoring, supporting workflow improvement and process optimization initiatives, assisting with financial and cost proposal support activities, leading ad hoc project efforts as needed, collaborating with other interns and departments on cross-functional initiatives, and assisting with expense report review and processing.This internship provides a strong foundation for students pursuing careers in finance, accounting, business operations, analytics, project coordination, or related business fields.Time Commitment:Hours of operation are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.This position requires a minimum of 15 hours and a maximum of 20 hours per semester to align with FWS FTE restrictions.This internship is primarily in-person with limited remote work opportunities.Opportunities:Build resume and explore career options Apply skills and knowledge to the workplace Upon completion of the internship, a letter of recommendation can be provided upon request Opportunity for follow-on internship based on performance ResponsibilitiesAssist with processing vendor invoices accurately and in a timely mannerVerify invoices for accuracy, proper approval, and codingMatch invoices to purchase orders and receiving documentsEnsure compliance with company policies and internal controlsAssist with month-end closing and AP reconciliationsAssist with preparation of AP reports and support auditsMaintain accurate and organized AP recordsAssist with payroll processing activities under supervisionAssist with processing USF payroll vouchersPerform general accounting and administrative supportive tasks, including ad hoc duties as assigned.QualificationsGeneral Skills:Ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies and tools.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Attention to detail and ability to work independently or as part of a team.Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn.Good communication skills for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders.Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.Security Clearance is not required, but preferred.Pursuing a bachelor's degree at a local accredited University with a Junior or Senior standing.Current GPA of 3.0 or aboveBecause this position is partially funded by the Department of Defense, candidates must have U.S. Citizenship.Specific Skills:Basic knowledge of accountingKnowledge of MS Office productsAccounting software exposureAbility to follow processesAbout UsWorking at USFWith approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.About USFThe University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .Compliance and Federal NoticesThis position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.Equal Employment OpportunityThe University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.