OverviewAt PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our directorates related to Mission Support & Operations include Office of General Counsel, Business Services, Communications and External Engagement, Operational Systems, Communications and Information Technology, and Performance Management.
The Business Services Directorate (BSD) provides crucial financial, procurement and sales, and project management services to PNNL, as required under our management and operations contract for operating the Lab on behalf of the Department of Energy. Our goal in offering these services is to ensure efficient, effective, and compliant business operations that enhance PNNL's scientific impact.
BSD presents exciting opportunities for financial professionals seeking career growth. We foster a dynamic environment where individuals can develop their skills, take on leadership roles, and contribute to high-impact projects. By working with multidisciplinary teams, professionals have the chance to broaden their expertise, engage in continuous learning, and advance their careers while contributing to the groundbreaking scientific work at PNNL.
ResponsibilitiesThis Finance & Accounting Professional supports Travel Services within the Financial Operations Division of BSD and reports to the Manager, Travel Services. The role contributes to the effective operation of PNNL Travel Services by researching travel transactions, analyzing data, resolving routine issues, and assisting travelers and internal partners. Through this work, the individual builds subject matter expertise in travel systems, policies, federal requirements, and business processes while developing the technical and professional skills needed for continued growth within Financial Operations.
Travel Operations Support
- Serve as a subject matter expert for the Travel & Expense System and related accounting functions.
- Interpret travel policy, procedures, federal requirements, and system functionality for travelers and internal partners.
- Research and resolve transactional, system, and process issues within the Travel & Expense System.
- Review and analyze travel requests, itineraries, and expense reports to identify discrepancies and determine appropriate resolution.
Data & Financial Analysis
- Develop and maintain Travel Services reporting and dashboards to monitor travel activity, compliance, trends, and key performance indicators.
- Use Excel and other analytical tools to organize, analyze, and reconcile travel and financial data.
- Perform reconciliations and analyses to ensure accuracy and completeness of travel‑related general ledger liabilities.
- Review travel data to identify trends, recurring issues, and opportunities for process improvement.
Compliance & Controls
- Learn and apply Travel Services policies, DOE regulations, internal controls, and system requirements to ensure compliant operations.
- Support internal control and compliance activities, including documentation gathering, data review, and A‑123 testing support.
- Assist with internal and external audit requests by researching travel transactions, validating documentation, and preparing responses.
Documentation, Training, and Process Improvement
- Develop and maintain Travel Services procedures, desk guides, training materials, and other documentation.
- Identify and communicate system, workflow, and process improvement opportunities.
- Support travel‑system changes, enhancements, testing, and related initiatives.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with Travel Services team members, IT, Financial Operations partners, Business Offices, and other internal stakeholders to exchange information, research questions, and resolve issues.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- BS/BA in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration or a related field and 5 years of relevant accounting experience - OR -
- MS/MA in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration or a related field and 3 years of relevant accounting experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Working knowledge of PNNL financial/accounting systems and software programs.
- Proficiency with Excel, data analysis, and financial or transactional reconciliation.
- Assignments may be wide in scope requiring a broad background of experience or independent action and high degree of initiative to resolve issues.
- Ability to research issues, interpret policy, and provide clear guidance.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain accuracy, and adapt to evolving requirements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot Applicable.
Testing Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility RequirementsAs a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.
Mandatory RequirementsPlease be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company-funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.
Click Here For Rockstar Rewards
Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum SalaryUSD $86,700.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $134,200.00/Yr.