Accounting Operations Specialist

Accounting Operations Specialist

The Accounting Operations Specialist identifies, researches, and manages unclaimed funds while providing backup support to the Accounting Operations Supervisor, who oversees the connection and disconnection of utility systems and services. This role focuses on ensuring accurate tracking, regulatory compliance, and timely resolution of unclaimed property, while maintaining strong internal controls and delivering excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and identify accounts and assets that have been classified as unclaimed or abandoned, including uncashed checks.
• Conduct detailed research using internal and external databases to trace the rightful owners of unclaimed funds.
• Verify ownership and obtain all necessary documentation to release funds to the rightful claimant.
• Review and process unclaimed property reports in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
• Prepare accurate reports and maintain detailed records of unclaimed funds, including transaction history, claimant information, and related correspondence.
• Ensure compliance with state-specific unclaimed property laws and filing deadlines for property reports.
• Stay current on federal and state regulations related to unclaimed property and unclaimed funds reporting.
• Ensure compliance with state escheatment laws and other legal requirements governing unclaimed funds.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive financial and claimant data throughout the claims process.
• Provide responsive customer service by answering inquiries from agencies, claimants, and internal teams regarding unclaimed property status and the claims process.
• Act as a liaison between the organization, state agencies, and claimants to support efficient and accurate claims resolution.
• Assist in preparing annual reports and filings for unclaimed property, ensuring all required documents are submitted by statutory deadlines.
• Participate in audits and reviews of unclaimed funds to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare monthly HUF workpapers and reconcile them to the balance provided by the Corporate Accountant.
• Serve as a backup for processing utility payments, ensuring timely and accurate disbursements.
• Serve as a backup for researching utility deposits, including investigating discrepancies and resolving issues.
• Support the Accounting Operations Supervisor as needed in coordinating the connection and disconnection of utility systems and services.
• Use Excel and the organization's ERP system to track aging reports, research payables, and resolve payment issues with a strong focus on accuracy and attention to detail.

Essential Skills

• 1–3+ years of accounts payable experience, including familiarity with general ledger activity and journal entries.
• Ability to create, review, and prepare journal entries with a high degree of accuracy.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including sorting and filtering data and using prebuilt formulas to track aging reports for unclaimed property.
• Working knowledge of unclaimed property processes, including identification, research, and resolution of unclaimed funds.
• Experience tracking aging reports, researching payables, and clearing payment issues using both Excel and an ERP system.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial recordkeeping and documentation.
• Ability to interpret and apply state and federal regulations related to unclaimed property and escheatment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and filing requirements.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with agencies, claimants, and internal stakeholders.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding sensitive financial information.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in unclaimed property and/or property management industries.
• Experience with MRI or Yardi or similar property management or accounting systems.
• Familiarity with preparing workpapers that reconcile to general ledger balances.
• Experience participating in audits or regulatory reviews related to unclaimed funds or accounts payable.
• Comfort working within ERP systems to research transactions and resolve discrepancies.
• Interest in a long-term opportunity with potential to convert to a permanent role with a large local employer.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, Monday through Friday role with standard daytime hours, typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The position operates in a professional office environment that relies on accounting systems, ERP platforms, and Microsoft Excel for daily work. The role involves regular collaboration with internal accounting and operations teams, as well as interaction with external agencies and claimants, primarily through electronic communication and phone. The work focuses on detailed financial analysis, documentation, and compliance activities in a structured, process-driven setting.

Kaitland Clawson