Staff Accountant

DEPARTMENT: Finance SALARY GRADE: 9 SUMMARY Under general supervision, performs professional accounting duties including bi-weekly payroll processing, accounts payable administration, purchasing card program support, limited accounts receivable activities, customer refunds, unclaimed property reporting, general ledger analysis and reconciliations, and financial reporting support. Assists with month-end and year-end close, annual audits, budget preparation, and other accounting functions. Ensures compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements, applicable state and federal regulations, and Benbrook Water Authority policies and procedures. This position requires strong analytical and organizational skills, attention to detail, adaptability to changing priorities and business needs, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties. Process and maintain accurate bi-weekly payroll, including timesheet review, payroll adjustments, employee deductions, payroll reporting, payroll-related account reconciliations, payroll tax reporting, and year-end payroll activities. Administer accounts payable functions, including invoice review, approval verification, expenditure coding, vendor payment processing, vendor record maintenance, and annual 1099 reporting. Administer the Authority's Purchasing Card (P-Card) program by reviewing cardholder transactions, ensuring policy compliance, collecting supporting documentation, and reconciling transactions for accurate accounting and reporting. Create, process, monitor, and close purchase orders in coordination with departments and vendors to ensure proper authorization, budget availability, timely closure, accurate expenditure recording, and compliance with Authority purchasing policies and procedures. Review and process customer refund checks, prepare a limited number of receivable invoices, and record related cash receipts in accordance with established policies and procedures. Manage the Authority's unclaimed property process, including due diligence requirements, annual report preparation, and remittance in compliance with state regulations. Prepare journal entries, maintain supporting documentation, and perform monthly general ledger account analysis and reconciliations to ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial records. Research and resolve accounting discrepancies, unusual account activity, and reconciling items. Assist with month-end and year-end closing processes, including preparation of financial statements, management reports, audit schedules, and supporting documentation. Assist with annual budget preparation and monitoring activities. Ensure accounting policies and procedures are followed and support adequate internal controls. Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB pronouncements, and other applicable regulatory requirements. Support the relationship between Benbrook Water Authority and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with customers, visitors, vendors, auditors, and BWA staff. Maintain confidentiality of work-related issues and Benbrook Water Authority information. Perform other duties as required or assigned. KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Knowledge: Benbrook Water Authority policies and procedures. Governmental accounting principles and practices, including GAAP and GASB standards. Customer service standards and protocols. Customer account inquiry and refund processing procedures. Payroll processing, accounts payable, general ledger accounting, and account reconciliation practices. Internal control concepts and account reconciliation methods. Financial and ERP software, including Microsoft Excel. Skills: Analyzing financial data and resolving accounting discrepancies. Preparing accurate journal entries and supporting reconciliations. Interpreting and applying accounting standards and regulatory requirements. Using accounting/ERP and payroll software with accuracy and efficiency. Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with staff, vendors, and auditors. QUALIFICATIONS Required: Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field and three (3) years of progressively responsible accounting experience; or Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field and five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting experience. Preferred: Experience in governmental/public sector accounting, particularly Government Accounting Standards. Experience in payroll processing and/or accounts payable in a similar-sized organization. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation or active CPA track progression preferred. Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) designation or active progress toward one. Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) designation or active progress toward one. Experience with Caselle and Bill.com for procurement management. LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License. PHYSICAL DEMAND AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computers and related peripherals. Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing; occasional stooping, squatting, kneeling, bending, pushing, pulling, and twisting. Motion: Frequent repetitive hand movements, including keyboarding and mouse use; occasional reaching. Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying of less than 15 pounds. Environment: Office setting; may require occasional irregular or extended hours. Attendance: Regular, punctual on-site attendance is required. Mental Demands: Maintains composure under stress and works effectively with frequent interruptions. #J-18808-Ljbffr