Associate Accountant

DEPARTMENT Finance CLASSIFICATION Non-Exempt REPORTS TO Controller DIRECT REPORTS N/A Position Description Under supervision of the Controller, the Associate Accountant is responsible for the day-to-day processing of accounts payable and payroll functions for the Zoo & Aquarium, including vendor payments, employee payroll, and maintaining accurate financial records. This role also assists with the overall processing, verifying, and balancing of cash, coins and checks from the Zoo & Aquarium’s revenue-generating departments and events. This position supports the Finance department by ensuring all transactions are processed in accordance with established accounting policies and procedures, with an emphasis on accuracy, timeliness, confidentiality, and strong internal controls. POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Duties Percentage Processes all accounts payable transactions, including: Reviewing, coding, and entering invoices into the accounting system. Ensuring proper approvals are obtained in accordance with internal controls.Preparing and processing weekly check runs and electronic payments.Reconciling vendor statements and resolving discrepancies. Maintaining vendor files and responding to vendor inquiries. 50% Administers payroll processing, including: Processing bi-weekly payroll through company’s payroll/HR system. Reviewing employee timekeeping records and resolving discrepancies. Maintaining payroll records, deductions, and employee data. Assisting with payroll tax reporting and year-end processes (W-2s). 20% Provides revenue control duties once as a backup resource: Verifying and handling large sums of currency and coins.Reporting revenue accurately in cashier balance sheets.Entering and reviewing daily revenue reports. 10% Performs reconciliations and supports month-end closing, including: Reconciling accounts payable and payroll-related general ledger accounts. Assisting with month-end closing entries and reporting.Providing documentation and support for audits as needed. 10% Works with managers and staff to resolve invoice and payroll-related issues and ensure accurate financial reporting. 5% Supports the finance department with additional projects, as requested. 5% *This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Minimum Qualifications EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field required.EXPERIENCE:1–2 years of accounts payable and/or payroll experience required.Knowledge and experience with accounting standards and procedures.Experience using SAGE Intacct financials and Paycor payroll preferred. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Strong customer service skills, with ability to embrace a service-oriented approach and support others with professionalism.OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:Must have valid driver’s license.Must be able to lift coin bags weighing up to 25 pounds.Must be able to maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial and employee information.Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes, to backup for revenue control. Must pass a background and drug screening.