Staff Accountant

Summary:

The Staff Accountant is responsible for preparing and maintaining financial records for both the management company and affiliated charter school entities across multiple states. This role works closely with another Staff Accountant and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and is accountable for tracking the organization’s assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, tax obligations, and other related financial activities. A strong understanding of accounting principles, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with school administrators and corporate staff are essential for success in this role. The Staff Accountant reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Financial Record Keeping:
  • Maintain and update financial records, general ledger entries and bank reconciliations.
  • Record and track all financial transactions accurately using accounting software.
  • Reconcile intercompany transactions between management and schools.
  • Maintain accurate fixed asset records for multiple locations; work closely with asset managers, integrating asset software records with financial systems.
• Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations, as well as school-specific requirements.
  • Set up new accounts in compliance with state-specific accounting manuals.
  • Assist in maintaining and developing internal controls to safeguard school funds.
• Financial Reporting:
  • Generate regular monthly financial statements, including balance sheet and income statements.
  • Assist in the preparation of financial reports for audits and provide necessary documentation to auditors.
  • Assist in the preparation of tax forms with federal, state and local government agencies.
• Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with other departments and administrators to ensure smooth financial processes and compliance with company policies and local, state and federal requirements.
  • Collaborate with department budget managers to ensure proper treatment of year-end accruals, grants balancing and other requirements integral to the audit process.
  • Collaborate with department budget assistants to ensure proper coding and tracking of prepaids, capital outlay, lease accounting, and other GASB requirements.
  • Collaborate with payroll department to reconcile payroll tax discrepancies and to reconcile the general ledger to payroll activity.

Skills/Abilities:

• Understanding of and the ability to adhere to generally accepted accounting principles.
• Advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills.
• Proficient in Google Workspace
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail to manage multiple deadlines.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, or related field, required.
• At least three years of related experience required. School accounting or governmental fund accounting experience is a plus.
• Experience with financial software and tools, Business Central preferred.
• Familiarity with the unique financial requirements of educational entities is a plus.
• CPA or similar certifications are advantageous but not required for the role.