Accounting Specialist

Accounting Specialist

The Town of Ashland is seeking experienced and qualified candidates for the position of Accounting Specialist. The Accounting Specialist performs a variety of technical and administrative accounting functions in support of the Town's financial operations. Responsibilities include processing accounts payable and receivable transactions, maintaining financial records, preparing reconciliations and reports, assisting with budget and audit activities, and ensuring compliance with municipal accounting policies and procedures. The position works closely with all Town departments, vendors, and other municipal personnel to support the accurate and efficient management of financial information. The Accounting Specialist works independently and as part of a team, applies sound judgment within established guidelines, and maintains the confidentiality, accuracy, and integrity of financial records.

Annual Salary: $63,000/year - $68,000/year D.O.Q's

Essential Functions

• Process and maintain accounts payable functions, including invoice entry, warrant preparation, payment processing, and vendor maintenance.
• Record and reconcile financial transactions in the Town's financial management system (MUNIS), ensuring accuracy and compliance with established accounting procedures.
• Prepare, review, and maintain financial records, reports, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
• Assist with budget monitoring activities, including distribution, tracking, and retention of departmental budget reports and approvals.
• Reconcile accounts as assigned.
• Maintain organized electronic and physical accounting records in accordance with municipal policies and record retention requirements.
• Provide support for annual audits, year-end closing activities, and other financial reporting requirements.
• Assist the Town Accountant with special projects, financial analyses, and administrative functions as assigned.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, internal controls, and municipal accounting standards.
• Provide courteous and professional customer service to Town departments, vendors, and board and committee members.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Supervision Required: This position works under the general supervision of the Town Accountant. Position may be supervised by the Assistant Town Accountant based on the project assigned.

Education and Experience: This position requires an Associate's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (Bachelor's Degree preferred), or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skill:

• Knowledge: A thorough knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles is required, with municipal accounting experience greatly preferred. General working knowledge of applicable Massachusetts General Laws.
• Ability: To organize and prioritize multiple tasks and deadlines. To work efficiently in a busy environment. To effectively work both independently through self-motivation and collaboratively as a team.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Strong proficiency with spreadsheet applications. Proficiency in Google Suite. Experience in MUNIS financial software preferred.

Schedule (40 hours/week):

• Mon, Tues, Thurs 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Wed 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Fri 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

The Town of Ashland is an AA/EEO Employer