Bookkeeper

Position Type: Three-Quarter Time (Approximately 30 hours per week) Compensation: $32.00 per hour Bookkeeper (Three-Quarter Time) Arts Council of Kern Location: Bakersfield, California (In-Person) The Arts Council of Kern is the designated local arts agency for Kern County and a dynamic nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching our community through the visual, performing, literary, media, and cultural arts. We are seeking an experienced, highly organized Bookkeeper to oversee the day-to-day financial operations of our growing nonprofit organization. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and has strong nonprofit bookkeeping experience with exceptional attention to detail. Position Summary The Bookkeeper is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting grant and contract reporting, processing payroll information, reconciling accounts, and ensuring that all financial transactions are recorded accurately and timely. This individual will work closely with the Executive Director and management team to support sound financial stewardship and compliance with nonprofit accounting practices. Primary Responsibilities Financial Management Maintain the organization’s general ledger and bookkeeping records. Process and monitor Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable. Record and reconcile all organizational income and expenditures. Prepare and process deposits. Track all invoices from vendors, contractors, teaching artists, and consultants. Generate invoices for grants, contracts, sponsorships, and fee-for-service programs. Monitor outstanding receivables and follow up on unpaid invoices. Grant & Program Financial Tracking Maintain detailed financial records by grant and funding source. Track grant expenditures to ensure compliance with funding requirements. Assist with financial reports required by grantors and government agencies. Maintain organized documentation supporting grant reimbursements and audits. Payroll Administration Collect and review employee timesheets for accuracy. Submit payroll information to payroll company in accordance with payroll deadlines. Ensure payroll is processed for distribution on the 1st and 15th of each month. Maintain payroll records and supporting documentation. Monthly Accounting Duties Reconcile all bank accounts monthly. Reconcile payroll reports and payroll liabilities. Verify account balances and investigate discrepancies. Prepare monthly financial reports for the Executive Director. Assist in preparing financial information for the Board of Directors. Maintain accurate cash flow records. Financial Compliance Maintain organized financial files (electronic and paper). Assist with annual audits and tax preparation. Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and organizational policies. Protect confidential financial and personnel information. Preferred Qualifications Minimum 3 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience. Experience with nonprofit accounting preferred. Knowledge of grant accounting and restricted fund tracking. Experience with QuickBooks (Desktop or Online). Experience working with Paychex payroll systems preferred. Strong Microsoft Excel and Office Suite skills. Excellent organizational and time management skills. High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Education Associate degree in Accounting, Bookkeeping, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent experience preferred. Desired Characteristics We are seeking someone who: Takes pride in accuracy and attention to detail. Enjoys working independently while collaborating with a small team. Appreciates the mission of arts, education, and community service. Demonstrates initiative and problem-solving skills. Values transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility. Benefits Three-quarter-time schedule (approximately 30 hours per week) Paid holidays (per organizational policy) Paid sick leave Professional, creative, mission-driven work environment Opportunity to make a meaningful impact through the arts To Apply Please submit to View email address on click.appcast.io Resume Cover Letter Three professional references The Arts Council of Kern is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds who are committed to supporting the arts and strengthening our community. #J-18808-Ljbffr ARTS COUNCIL OF KERN