Accounting Specialist

Description The Accounting Specialist supports the financial operations of Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy by maintaining accurate financial records, processing accounting transactions, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This position plays a critical role in supporting accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, grant compliance, purchasing, budgeting, and financial reporting while partnering with departments across the organization to promote sound financial stewardship. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, solutions-focused, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and confidentiality. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES General Accounting Prepare, record, and maintain accurate financial transactions in the general ledger. Process journal entries, accruals, adjustments, and account reclassifications. Maintain the chart of accounts and ensure transactions are properly coded. Perform monthly account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner. Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes. Prepare supporting schedules for financial reporting. Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Process vendor invoices and employee reimbursements in accordance with organizational policies. Verify proper approvals, account coding, and supporting documentation prior to payment. Prepare and process electronic payments, ACH transactions, and checks. Maintain vendor records, W-9 documentation, and payment histories. Respond to vendor inquiries and resolve payment discrepancies. Record deposits and incoming payments. Monitor outstanding receivables and assist with collection efforts. Reconcile cash receipts and maintain accurate customer balances. Prepare invoices as needed for grants, partnerships, facility rentals, or other organizational revenue. Budgeting & Financial Reporting Assist with the preparation of annual budgets and periodic forecasts. Prepare budget-to-actual reports for department leaders. Support variance analysis and financial trend reporting. Provide financial data and analysis to support leadership decision-making. Audit Support Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation. Assist external auditors during annual financial audits. Purchasing & Procurement Review purchase requests for budget availability and proper approvals. Assist with procurement documentation and vendor onboarding. Monitor purchasing compliance with organizational policies. Internal Controls & Process Improvement Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard organizational assets. Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and operational efficiencies. Assist with implementation of new financial systems and procedures. Cross-Functional Collaboration Serve as a financial resource for school leaders and department managers. Provide excellent customer service to employees, vendors, and external partners. Partner with Human Resources, Operations, and Executive Leadership on financial initiatives. Support special projects and organizational priorities as assigned. Other Duties Perform additional accounting, finance, and administrative responsibilities as assigned to support the needs of the organization. Requirements QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS Required Qualifications Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy. Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Knowledge of federal and state grant accounting requirements.. Experience preparing audit schedules and supporting annual financial audits. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Primarily office-based with standard business hours. Occasional evening or extended hours during payroll processing, month-end close, fiscal year-end, budgeting, or audit periods. Requires prolonged periods of sitting, computer use, and reviewing financial data. Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds. Occasional travel between school campuses or to financial institutions, trainings, or meetings may be required. Summary EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER HFCA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination. We are committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, gender, disability, genetic information, marital status, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, lay-off, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. HFCA expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Any actions or behaviors that create an uncomfortable work environment and prohibit an employee to perform their expected duties will not be tolerated. #J-18808-Ljbffr