Business Operations Analyst

Totem is seeking an organized, trustworthy, detail-oriented, and adaptable Business Operations Analyst to join our internal operations team.

As a Business Operations Analyst, you will provide hands-on, cross-functional support across payroll, finance, and general business operations. The ideal candidate will take ownership of recurring activities, solve practical problems, maintain accurate records, and help keep the business running smoothly.

This role will work closely with employees, leadership, and external financial partners to support routine business activities, safeguard confidential information, and identify opportunities to improve internal processes within a small-business environment. The Business Operations Analyst will work closely with the Executive Leadership team to support day-to-day business operations, provide visibility into key operational and financial activities, and help identify and implement improvements that strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will strengthen the operational foundation of a growing consulting firm by improving the accuracy, consistency, and efficiency of essential business processes.

• Assist with accounts payable and accounts receivable activities, including processing invoices, bills, expense reports, and other routine financial transactions within Totem's accounting and business management systems.
• Assist with expense tracking, budgeting, monthly, quarterly, and year-end accounting activities, and the preparation of routine reports and spreadsheets for management review.
• Maintain organized financial records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with payroll preparation and coordinate payroll-related information and changes.
• Track employee time, attendance, paid time off, and other employee records.
• Maintain the confidentiality of employee, payroll, financial, and other sensitive information.
• Coordinate with the company's accountant, bookkeeper, payroll provider, and other external financial partners as needed.
• Assist with office administration, purchasing, vendor coordination, and other operational tasks.
• Maintain existing accounting and finance standard operating procedures (SOPs), document new procedures, and identify opportunities to improve business processes.
• Take on additional responsibilities as the needs of the business evolve.

What We’re Looking For

A successful Business Analyst demonstrates sound judgment, organization, trustworthiness, attention to detail, flexibility, and professionalism. The successful candidateis comfortable wearing multiple hats, working independently, and collaborating across functions.

You should be able to:

• Complete routine finance and accounting tasks reliably and on schedule.
• Support accurate and timely payroll processing.
• Keep invoices, expenses, and financial transactions organized and up to date.
• Maintain accurate and organized employee and financial records.
• Provide responsive and professional support to employees and management.
• Identify and implement practical improvements to business processes.
• Become a dependable cross-functional resource for the business.

Required Experience:

• 2-3 years of experience in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Relevant internship or entry-level experience may be considered.
• Physical residence in Washington, DC, Maryland, or Northern Virginia.
• Demonstrated experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, or bank reconciliations.
• Familiarity with basic employment and payroll requirements.
• Experience using payroll, accounting, and other business software.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including formulas, sorting, filtering, and reporting.
• Strong attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information professionally.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to ask questions when clarification is needed.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a team.

Preferred Experience

• An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is helpful but not required.
• Understanding of accounting principles.
• Experience with QuickBooks.
• Experience with payroll platforms such as Rippling.
• Experience working in a small-business and fast-paced environment.

Total Compensation

Totem will communicate the anticipated salary range for this full-time position to candidates during the hiring process and will reflect experience, qualifications, and applicable legal requirements. Totem offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Employer-sponsored retirement benefits
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Professional development and learning opportunities
• Primarily remote work
• Direct mentorship and exposure to firm leadership

Travel Expectations

Occasional travel may be required to attend business meetings within the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Totem generally defines local travel as travel within 50 miles of your assigned workplace. Daily commuting and local travel performed for personal convenience are not reimbursable.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Totem is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

This job description is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Responsibilities may change, or new responsibilities may be assigned based on business and client needs.