WCNY, Central New York’s own member-supported public broadcasting station, is an exciting, forward-looking multimedia company leveraging TV, radio, Internet, social media, and print. WCNY reaches 19 counties and 1.8 million people with content that sparks positive change.

Position Summary

The Accounting Support Specialist requires a dynamic and engaging person who knows accounting principles, understands or is willing to understand media sales, and is organized and personable. This position will assist with accounting and financial matters, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, monthly closes, and audits, as well as work closely with the sales team on underwriting and corporate sponsorship to input and review sales contracts, provide affidavits as part of invoicing clients, and track and manage commissions. This position will keep accurate records, ensure that invoices are paid when necessary, and receive and process payments for services rendered or goods delivered.

Welcome to your new opportunity! This is an amazing position for an energetic, self-starting, self-motivated, and mission-driven individual who wants to be an integral part of a growing public media organization that is an essential source of truth and ideas.

This position reports to the Accounting Manager and works closely with our accounting departments and Underwriting team.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

Incorporate best practices regarding confidentiality and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) into all job duties and communications by WCNY policies and procedures and other applicable regulations.

• Coordinate and process accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• Process vendor invoices timely and accurately and administer payment via check/credit card/ACH as appropriate.
• Maintain and update vendor files and documentation.
• Responsible for annual 1099 forms processing including mail.
• Maintain accurate and complete records, including ledgers, invoices, and receipts.
• Provide accurate information in person and via phone/email regarding accounts receivable and payable to internal and external clients.
• Coordinate tax-exempt purchases with tax-exempt certificates.
• Keep track and maintain all contracts for the Business office interface into General Ledger( GL) for earned revenues and billing and reflect appropriately in the accounting system.
• Coordinate with sales representatives to ensure streamlined and accurate billing, collection, and revenue recognition.
• Assist the accounting manager in daily, monthly, and annual activities as required.
• Maintain confidentiality with accounting information.
• Process and calculate monthly commissions for sales representatives and forward them to the supervisor for final approval.
• Provide administrative and general support to the underwriting team including assisting with scheduling appointments and client visitation, Media Services Order Communication and production, and other Sales Support assigned duties.
• Collaboratively establish a process for managing accounts, including inventory, and ensuring the protection/utilization of the company’s existing rate structure.
• Proactively identify opportunities and effectively communicate promotional and/or underwriting opportunities to the underwriting team and prospective clients.
• Prepare advertising schedules, promotional plans, sales literature, proposals, and sales contracts using either self-designed content, or that provided by team members, as needed.
• Respond and assist with sales order follow-ups, invoicing, or accounts receivable, as assigned
• Provide information by answering underwriting questions and requests from reps or clients
• Identify and monitor sales trends locally, and nationally, and recommend action steps.
• Enter contact information accurately to ensure schedules air properly, announcements are read correctly, and clients are billed accurately.
• Perform other duties and special projects as by the supervisor.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline required.
• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or related field preferred.
• Certified Public Accounting (CPA) desired
• Non-Profit experience preferred.
• 2-3 years experience in an accounting role is required.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Proven work experience as an Accounting Specialist or similar role.
• Understanding of accounting principles and current financial regulations.
• Exceptional time management, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Strong math and research skills.
• Established computer skills with knowledge of accounting software.
• Detail-oriented and communicates clearly and effectively.
• Works well with a variety of different individuals.
• Manages time efficiently.
• Exhibits proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Completion of a satisfactory background check.
• Able to contribute positively as part of a team, helping with various tasks as required.
• Must have reliable transportation.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

WCNY is an equal-opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health savings account
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance

Physical setting:

• Office

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Microsoft Excel: 2 years (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

License/Certification:

• CPA (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Syracuse, NY 13204 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Syracuse, NY 13204: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person