General Accounting Specialist

General Accounting Specialist

YWCA of Metropolitan St. Louis (YWCA) has been serving the community for more than 120 years, providing essential, wraparound services that support women and families throughout their time in our programs. Each year, YWCA serves approximately 10,000 women and their families, offering a multitude of services. YWCA is the largest provider of direct Head Start services in Missouri, operating 8 centers and 11 partner sites, and we are proud to hold the National Program of Excellence accreditation from the National Head Start Association.

The General Accounting Specialist is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the organization's financial records through the administration of payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, client billing, account reconciliations, and general ledger support. This position plays a key role in supporting the organization's financial operations by ensuring timely transaction processing, accurate recordkeeping, compliance with applicable regulations, and effective financial reporting.

The General Accounting Specialist supports the daily financial operations of the organization by coordinating payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and general accounting activities. This position is responsible for ensuring financial transactions are processed accurately and timely, maintaining complete and accurate accounting records, reconciling financial accounts, supporting audit and compliance activities, and assisting with month-end and year-end financial processes. The General Accounting Specialist plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of financial data, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements, and providing accurate financial information to support organizational decision-making, fiscal accountability, and effective stewardship of resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process full-cycle payroll on a weekly or biweekly basis.
• Review, audit, and verify employee time records for accuracy and appropriate approvals.
• Maintain payroll records, including new hires, terminations, compensation changes, benefit deductions, tax withholding elections, and garnishments.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations.
• Prepare payroll-related reports and documentation as needed.
• Prepare, review, and distribute accurate client invoices and account statements in a timely manner.
• Record and process incoming payments, including checks, electronic payments, and credit card transactions.
• Maintain accurate accounts receivable records and supporting documentation.
• Reconcile customer accounts and investigate discrepancies.
• Collaborate with program and housing staff to resolve billing questions and payment issues.
• Generate aging reports and assist with collection follow-up activities.
• Process accounts payable invoices, obtain required approvals, and prepare vendor payments. Reconcile bank accounts, credit card statements, and general ledger accounts.
• Prepare journal entries and maintain supporting documentation as assigned.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Support internal and external audits through the preparation and organization of financial records.
• Maintain the confidentiality, security, and accuracy of all financial information
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in payroll, bookkeeping, accounts payable, accounts receivable, or general accounting.
• Nonprofit accounting experience preferred.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and standard accounting practices.
• Knowledge of payroll processing requirements and applicable wage and hour regulations.
• Proficiency with accounting software, payroll systems, and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasional lifting of files or office materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to meet peak workload demands during month-end, year-end, and audit periods.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced office environment.

YWCA of Metro St. Louis is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind as defined by applicable federal, state, and local laws.