Accounting Specialist

Responsibilities

• Compiles and maintains financial information related to assigned area(s) of responsibility.
• Performs accounting duties specific to supporting district department and program operations, including payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipting, federal programs, Child Nutrition Program, local school bookkeeping support, insurance/employee benefits, purchasing, fixed assets, etc.
• Uses approved systems and software to record, reconcile, and examine details of financial transactions from a variety of sources in general and subsidiary records, journals, and ledgers for accuracy and compliance.
• Prepares consolidating entries as required.
• Analyzes and reviews discrepancies, traces errors, makes corrections, and reports issues as needed to the Accounting Supervisor to ensure timely resolution.
• May assist with preparing bank deposits, reconciling bank statements, and monitoring account balances and related financial activity to ensure allocations are accurate and compliant with established guidelines.
• May assist with other bank-related functions as requested, including preparing ACH file, bank transfer letters, etc.
• Prepares a variety of reports and other documentation and ensures timely submission to appropriate organizations and agencies to meet established deadlines.
• Provides support and assistance as needed during state and federal audit reviews to ensure the availability of requested financial documentation and information.
• Contributes to the development, maintenance, and distribution of standardized department documentation and communications as needed.
• Follows established procedures to compile and maintain accurate and complete files and records for the purpose of recording fiscal activities, maintaining audit trails, and complying with applicable guidelines and regulations.
• Attends meetings as appropriate to present and discuss information related to school system financial matters.
• Participates in professional learning opportunities and in-service training programs as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with training in accounting and bookkeeping procedures.
• Three (3) years’ experience in finance, accounting, or payroll office performing accounting or accounting related duties.
• Must meet background clearance requirements as specified by Alabama statutes and State Board of Education regulations.

Required Skills

• Knowledgeable in group business techniques and computers at a level required to implement and maintain an automated financial system.
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal form.
• Possess physical and emotional ability and dexterity to perform required work and move about as needed in a fast-paced, high-intensity work environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with payroll processing and accounting software.
• Familiarity with federal and state regulations related to education finance.