EAO/JCMT Finance Administrator
Full time Regular Employment at East Asian Observatory JCMT
Category: Administration
Location: Hilo
Open date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Closing date: Friday, February 20, 2026
Job number: 260126
Summary
Job Summary
Regular, 50%-75% Part-Time, position with the East Asian Observatory (EAO), located in Hilo, Hawai’i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.
Takes full responsibility for the efficiency and effectiveness of the EAO accounting operations, including accounts receivable and payable on an accruals accounting basis; cash and banking; asset accounting including disposals and write-offs; and procurement. Undertakes appropriate dipstick testing to confirm the validity of the system. Has authority for the production of the monthly cash account and end of year accounts. Provides financial data and advice to President and senior managers. Responsible for costing and invoicing for International Agreements.
As a condition of employment, employees will be subject to all applicable EAO policies and procedures. Violation of EAO’s policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).
Requirements
Primary Qualifications
Education/Training: Associate’s Degree from an accredited community college in Accounting or Business Administration.
Experience: At least five (5) years of experience supporting accounts payable, accounts receivable, and purchasing. At least two (2) years of experience in line management including annual performance reporting, training, and disciplinary matters. Experience with change management. Experience in working in a multicultural environment. Relevant experience in the finance area.
Knowledge: Knowledge of accounting principles, including accruals and management accounting requirements. Knowledge of Oracle based accounting systems, Accounts Payable, Cash Management and Project Accounting modules.
Abilities and Skills: Proficiency with computerized accounting packages for both Financial and Management Accounting, word processing software (Microsoft Word) and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel). Ability to clearly convey, both orally and in writing, financial requirements and procedures to all levels of staff. Ability to clearly explain financial issues with international partners. Proven ability to interact effectively and deal tactfully with others.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle (or be able to drive these vehicles following appropriate training). If personal vehicle will be used for business purpose: Must possess proof of personal vehicle insurance and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must also provide the EAO Human Resources Department with drivers license information and keep current throughout the duration of employment. Failure to meet this requirement or falsification of documents may result in disciplinary action including and up to termination of employment.
Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to pass a post offer criminal background check.
Physical and/or Medical Demands: Must be capable of safe manual handling of loads up to seventy (70) pounds assisted.
Additional Information
SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS
Certification as Public Accountant. Experience of working in an international environment. Experience with Blackbaud software. Experience with Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH) Financial Portal software.
How To Apply: You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position: cover letter, resume, (2) supervisory references (contact details including title and email address), and a copy of any educational degrees or certifications relevant to the position. All submissions must be received by the closing date stated on the job posting via email to careers@eaobservatory.org, fax (808/961-6516) or on location at 660 N. A’ohoku Place, Hilo.
About East Asian Observatory JCMT
The EAO (East Asian Observatory) is formed by EACOA (East Asian Core Observatories Association) for the purpose of pursuing joint projects in astronomy within the East Asian region. In the era of very large scale astronomical instruments, East Asia will be competitive internationally by combining their funding resources, their technical expertise, and their manpower. The intention of EAO is to build and operate facilities, which will enhance and leverage existing and planned regional facilities. The intention of EAO is to raise funding and to build an observatory staff, separate from that of the EACOA institutions. As partners of the EAO, the EACOA institutes will help to establish the funding and to oversee the governance of EAO. The communities represented by the partners in EAO would have full access to all EAO facilities.
Website: www.eaobservatory.org
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