FORENSIC ACCOUNTANT

Code: 50528 State Competitive Range: P22 (FY 2027) Work week NL: FLSA exemptOvertime table (4A:3, Appx. A)

Salary: $69,668.2 - $101,950.9/year FY 2027 schedule (last updated 2026-07-27)

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under the direction of the Assistant Secretary or the Chief Financial Officer, Director of Compliance, or other supervisory official in the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE), will conduct systematic technical investigations into finances with a focus on institutions of higher education under OSHE's purview utilizing forensic accounting methodologies; review financial documents to identify inaccuracies; analyze financial data and trace discrepancies; executes preventative actions to reduce and eliminate risks consistent with investigative objectives in alignment with OSHE's fiscal monitoring plan. These methods include a combination of accounting, auditing and analytical skills to identify fraudulent, wasteful activity and reported or unreported abuse involving misconduct; does other related duties as required.

Examples of work

• Conducts forensic investigations into institutional finances and methodologies, consistent with all State or Federal policies and processes, ensuring adherence to applicable laws and regulations.
• Performs forensic research on, and analysis of, financial data to identify potential fraud and/or revenue loss and analyze financial data and trace discrepancies.
• Contributes to the implementation of forensic accounting strategy, methodology, framework and guidelines.
• Compiles and updates forensic investigations, scope, and methodologies, including consideration of additional resources.
• Computes investigative findings and recommends appropriate recovery and remedial actions based on results.
• Prepares forensic investigative reports on the outcome of forensic investigations and obtains relevant stakeholders' comments in accordance with approved reporting protocol.
• Prepares analysis of complex financial records pertaining to alleged illicit activity to determine whether an offense has occurred.
• Conducts interviews with relevant individuals as part of forensic audits and investigations.
• Processes information gathered, assesses internal controls and weaknesses, and provides recommendations regarding allegations.
• Engages with other experts to assist in evidence gathering and provide a professional opinion.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with OSHE colleagues and fiscal staff in other agencies and at institutions.
• Provides expertise through a comprehensive understanding of regulatory expectations related to risks.
• Assists in maintaining effective relationships with colleagues, other agencies and institutions.
• Supports the implementation of innovative improvements and tactical changes to financial processes and systems.
• Stays abreast of new developments in the forensic accounting environment and makes recommendations on necessary changes.
• Assists in the annual fiscal monitoring plan for institutions of higher education in coordination with the Licensure division.
• Maintains knowledge of the relevant compliance standards that apply to OSHE's work, including recommendations on monitoring of COVID-19 funding to institutions.
• Other duties, as assigned by the Secretary of Higher Education, Deputy Secretary, Chief of Staff and Assistant Secretary.
• Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office or related units.

Education

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in forensic accounting, accounting, finance or business administration with a major concentration in forensic accounting and related courses.

Experience

Two (2) years of experience in forensic or fraud accounting investigations.

License

Appointee will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of financial and forensic accounting, auditing and compliance.
• Knowledge and proficiency in technology used in the field and the use of integrated information systems.
• Knowledge of accounting principles, standards, techniques, technology, and their application to specific accounting situations in accordance with statutory or established agency procedures.
• Knowledge of the different types of records and systems used in keeping accounts of financial transactions and their adaptation to difficult and unusual situations.
• Knowledge of the methods used in preventing, discovering, and correcting discrepancies in financial records.
• Knowledge of trends and variances in the forensic accounting environment.
• Knowledge of the proper form and content of financial records, statements, and schedules.
• Knowledge of the preparation of involved and detailed accounting and other financial reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Knowledge of the laws, rules, and regulations governing the installation, operation, and keeping of accounts of state agencies and their application to specific situations.
• Ability to analyze, collect, organize and disseminate significant amounts of information.
• Ability to observe recognized accounting principles and standards in maintaining the accounts of state agencies.
• Ability to recommend proposed changes in accounting procedures, and records to bring about increased accuracy and economy of operations.
• Ability to compile, review, analyze, and interpret basic financial data and to develop forms for recording such data.
• Ability to provide technical advice and assistance to those in charge of keeping financial records.
• Ability to communicate effectively with associates, subordinates, and the accounting staff.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with OSHE colleagues and fiscal staff in other agencies and institutions of higher learning.
• Ability to prepare and interpret financial statements and reports from involved and extensive financial data.
• Ability to analyze laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the installation, operation, and keeping of the accounts of state agencies to apply them to specific situations.
• Ability to prepare clear, sound, accurate and informative financial reports containing findings, conclusions and recommendations.
• Ability to maintain essential records and files.
• Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

Possession of a valid Certificate as a Certified Public Accountant or Registration as a Public Accountant issued by the New Jersey State Board of Accountancy may be substituted for the above education.