Position Summary:

The Summer Intern within the Controller’s Team at Vanderbilt University will participate in a structured, rotational program designed to provide exposure to the core financial operations of a leading higher education institution. Over the course of the internship, the intern will gain hands-on experience across key functional areas within Finance, including Accounting and Financial Reporting, Tax and Financial Leadership and Development, Procurement and Payment Services, and Research Finance.

This internship provides a comprehensive introduction to the financial operations of Vanderbilt University, a top-tier research institution. The program is intended to prepare candidates for future careers in accounting, finance, or higher education administration by combining practical experience with exposure to institutional strategy and compliance frameworks.

About the Work Unit:

The Controller’s Team is responsible for ensuring the integrity of Vanderbilt University’s financial records and supporting sound financial decision-making across the institution. The team oversees accounting, financial reporting, tax compliance, procurement and payment operations, and post-award research financial administration.

As part of Finance, the Controller’s Team partners with academic and administrative units to ensure compliance with institutional policies, federal and state regulations, and best practices in higher education financial management.

Program Structure:

The intern will rotate through the following teams, spending approximately two weeks with each:

• Accounting and Financial Reporting – Exposure to general ledger management, financial close processes, and preparation of institutional financial statements. 
• Tax and Financial Leadership and Development – Introduction to tax compliance in higher education (including unrelated business income and nonprofit considerations) and insight into finance-led professional development activities. 
• Procurement and Payment Services – Overview of procure-to-pay processes, supplier management, expense reimbursement, and payment operations. 
• Research Finance – Insight into post-award financial management, grant compliance, and financial oversight of sponsored research.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Participate in a structured rotational program across multiple finance functions 

• Assist with basic accounting, reconciliation, and reporting activities 

• Support analysis of financial data and preparation of internal reports 

• Gain exposure to university financial systems and processes (e.g., Oracle ERP) 

• Contribute to process improvement initiatives and documentation efforts 

• Attend team meetings and training sessions 

• Develop an understanding of compliance requirements specific to higher education, including federal grant regulations and nonprofit tax considerations 

• Collaborate with team members and build effective working relationships across departments 

• Present a summary of learning outcomes and key insights at the conclusion of the internship

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility. The intern will report to designated team leads within each functional area, with overall coordination by the Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance and Controller.

Education and Certifications:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited institution 

• Pursuing a degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field is preferred

Experience and Skills:

• Demonstrated interest in finance, accounting, or higher education administration 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is preferred 

• Effective written and verbal communication skills 

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment 

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills 

• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.