Position Overview:
The Staff Accountant will perform a variety of accounting functions to support the college’s financial operations, including general ledger management, reconciliation of accounts, financial reporting, and budget support. This role will require a detail-oriented individual with experience using BANNER, the college’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, to ensure accurate and timely processing of financial transactions. The Staff Accountant will collaborate with various departments to ensure proper accounting practices are adhered to and assist in financial reporting for internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
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General Ledger Management:
- Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial records.
- Post journal entries and adjustments as needed to reflect correct financial transactions.
- Assist with month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring all entries are recorded timely and accurately.
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Account Reconciliation:
- Perform regular reconciliation of bank accounts, balance sheet accounts, and interdepartmental accounts.
- Investigate and resolve discrepancies in financial data, ensuring compliance with internal policies and GAAP.
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Financial Reporting:
- Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports.
- Prepare ad hoc financial reports and analysis as requested by management.
- Support external auditors during audits, providing necessary documentation and explanations of financial activities.
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BANNER System Utilization:
- Utilize BANNER to input and track accounting transactions, including invoices, purchase orders, and payments.
- Leverage BANNER’s reporting tools to generate financial reports, review financial activity, and perform account reconciliations.
- Provide troubleshooting support for BANNER-related accounting functions and ensure compliance with institutional processes.
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Budgeting and Forecasting Support:
- Assist departments with budget preparation and tracking, ensuring that expenditures align with approved budgets.
- Provide reports and updates on budget variances and other financial performance indicators.
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Compliance & Internal Controls:
- Ensure adherence to college policies, accounting standards (GAAP), and government regulations.
- Assist with maintaining and improving internal controls to safeguard the institution’s assets.
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Collaboration & Communication:
- Work closely with other departments (e.g., Financial Aid, Student Accounts, Purchasing) to ensure smooth processing of financial transactions.
- Serve as a resource to staff and faculty for finance-related inquiries, offering clear and accurate explanations of financial procedures and policies.
Qualifications:
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Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
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Experience:
- 1-3 years of accounting experience, preferably in a higher education environment.
- Experience with BANNER or similar ERP system is required.
- Familiarity with general accounting practices and financial reporting standards (GAAP).
- Experience with account reconciliation, journal entries, and financial reporting.
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Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (pivot tables, v-lookups, etc.).
- Experience with BANNER Financials or state software’s strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of basic accounting software and familiarity with cloud-based tools is a plus.
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Additional Skills & Abilities:
- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.