Accounting Associate

Joffrey Ballet School is seeking a detail-oriented, highly organized, and technologically proficient Accounting Associate to support the school’s financial operations and administrative functions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in accounting principles, exceptional proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, and an interest in utilizing modern technology to improve financial processes and operational efficiency. This position plays an important role in maintaining accurate financial records, processing financial transactions, supporting payroll and employee administration, and ensuring compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulations. We are seeking a proactive problem-solver who is comfortable working across multiple financial and administrative platforms, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing efficient, technology-driven solutions. This is a remote position. There is a possibility for a hybrid schedule if located in New York City or Akron, Ohio. Qualifications, Requirements & Competencies Required Qualifications Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent relevant professional experience. Previous experience in bookkeeping, accounting, accounts payable/receivable, or financial administration. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets , including formulas, functions, data organization, reconciliation, and financial reporting. Familiarity with accounting software, payroll systems, and cloud-based financial platforms. Strong understanding of fundamental accounting principles and financial recordkeeping. Excellent organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, prioritize deadlines, and work independently. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to handle confidential financial and employee information with professionalism and discretion. Demonstrated comfort with technology and the ability to learn new software and systems quickly. Preferred Qualifications Experience with advanced spreadsheet functions, including XLOOKUP, VLOOKUP, SUMIFS, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and data validation. Experience with accounting platforms such as QuickBooks or similar systems. Familiarity with payroll processing, employee onboarding, and HR administration systems. Experience with financial reporting, budget tracking, and cash flow analysis. Familiarity with workflow automation and integration platforms such as Zapier, Airtable, or similar tools. Experience using AI-powered productivity tools to support data analysis, reporting, and administrative efficiency. Experience working with multiple billing or payment processing systems. Previous experience in a nonprofit, educational institution, performing arts organization, or similar environment. Familiarity with nonprofit accounting practices and audit preparation. Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be: Technologically savvy: Confident navigating multiple software platforms and eager to explore new tools and technologies. Detail-oriented: Committed to accuracy, consistency, and maintaining organized financial records. Responsibilities Key Responsibilities Maintain accurate, complete, and organized records of financial transactions in the school’s accounting systems. Perform regular reconciliations of bank accounts, credit card statements, and other financial accounts. Assist with general ledger maintenance, journal entries, and ensuring the accuracy of balance sheets and profit and loss statements. Support cash management activities, including online banking, account monitoring, and reconciliations. Research, investigate, and resolve financial discrepancies, payment issues, and accounting inconsistencies. Organize and maintain financial reports, transaction batches, schedules, statements, reconciliations, and supporting documentation. Assist with the preparation and ongoing maintenance of budget-to-actual and cash flow variance reports. Support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting and closing processes. Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Process vendor invoices, verify supporting documentation, and obtain appropriate approvals prior to payment. Coordinate vendor payments and maintain accurate accounts payable records. Assist with accounts receivable processing, payment recording, and account reconciliation. Monitor outstanding receivables, coordinate collection efforts, and provide weekly status reports to management. Research and resolve payment discrepancies, billing issues, and outstanding account balances. Maintain professional working relationships with vendors, employees, students, families, and other internal and external stakeholders. Payroll & Employee Administration Process payroll accurately and on schedule through the school’s designated payroll service. Maintain accurate employee records, including payroll documentation, employment information, and related administrative files. Assist with employee onboarding, including new-hire paperwork, payroll setup, and required employment documentation. Track and maintain employee paid time off, leave balances, and related records. Coordinate with management to ensure accurate payroll reporting and employee information. Maintain confidentiality and appropriate security of employee and financial information. Compliance, Reporting & Audits Apply established accounting policies, procedures, and applicable regulations to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance. Assist with the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual tax filings and statements, including sales tax reporting. Support the preparation and organization of financial documentation for external accountants, auditors, and regulatory reporting. Assist with the school’s annual audit and reporting requirements associated with the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD) . Maintain organized, accurate, and audit-ready accounting documentation. Assist with developing, documenting, and implementing accounting procedures and internal controls. Technology, Systems & Process Improvement Utilize advanced Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets skills to maintain financial records, analyze data, develop reports, and streamline accounting workflows. Work across multiple financial, billing, payroll, and administrative software platforms. Receive cross-training in the school’s billing systems and reporting platforms to support financial operations across departments. Identify opportunities to modernize and improve existing bookkeeping, reconciliation, and reporting processes. Research and recommend technology solutions, integrations, and automation tools that improve accuracy, efficiency, and productivity. Assist with implementing digital workflows, automated reporting, and system improvements. Maintain an understanding of emerging financial technologies, AI-assisted productivity tools, and accounting software advancements. Develop and maintain clear documentation for financial procedures and technology-based workflows. Additional Responsibilities Collaborate with the Senior Bookkeeper, Associate Executive Director, Executive Director, Director of Operations and other departments to support financial and operational needs. Provide administrative and financial support for special projects and organizational initiatives. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Senior Bookkeeper, Associate Executive Director, or Executive Director. Full Time Monday – Friday Salary: $40,000 – $47,000 commensurate with experience Benefits: #J-18808-Ljbffr Joffrey Ballet School