Staff Accountant

Primary Purpose:

The Staff Accountant will assist the Director of Finance and other business office officials in administering the district’s business affairs. Work with an integrated, automated financial accounting system, preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and reporting. Work with all aspects of accounting data that must be continually updated in preparation for monthly and annual ledger closing. Facilitate the efficient operation of financial-related matters by providing maximum services with the current resources available.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification: Bachelor’s Degree preferred, in accounting, finance, or related field

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of auditing and accounting principles
• Ability to use a personal computer and software to develop spreadsheets, databases, and do word processing (mostly using MS Excel and Word)
• Proficient in the use of keyboarding, ten-key numerical data entry, and file maintenance
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines while handling interruptions
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Good organizational skills
• Ability to analyze data
• Excellent mathematical skills
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity, confidentiality, and ethical behavior
• Fiscal accountability to ensure public and State funds are used legally and efficiently to support the mission of the district

Experience:

• Three years of experience in an accounting or finance role with a degree, or five years of school district experience without a degree
• Alternatives to the above as the District finds appropriate

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Reconcile accounts from supporting data to the general ledger.
• Research, obtain necessary documentation for, and process journal entries. 
• Prepare schedules, reports, and other information for the auditors. 
• Review transactions submitted by campus and department liaison specialists. 
• Prepare and provide training for departmental and campus personnel. 
• Provide direction and assistance to other departmental units regarding accounting policies, procedures, and efficient internal controls.  
• Support software conversions and implementation of accounting changes. 
• Examine the effectiveness of the district’s system of internal control. 
• Review departmental records, reports, documentation, and operating procedures to ensure compliance with federal and state law, State Board of Education rules, local board policy, and administrative procedures. 
• Issues Interim Financial Statements to the Board of Trustees and others as appropriate. 
• Prepare Financial Statements for annual audit. 
• Assist the Director of Finance with the supervision of accounting department personnel. 
• Utilizes a systems approach to continuous improvement. 
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance.

Working Conditions:

Ability to work with financial data in an accurate and rapid manner; ability to handle\ multiple tasks effectively; ability to work with frequent interruptions and maintain control under stress; prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/ pulling, and twisting; repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching; occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); occasional prolonged and irregular hours