Accounting Specialist

Reports To: Executive Director

Position Overview: The School Accountant provides essential training, technical assistance, and day-to-day financial support to Minnesota public school districts. Working closely with the Executive Director, the School Accountant will facilitate workshops, ensure compliance with financial reporting standards, and coordinate communication between school districts and relevant governing bodies. This role plays a key part in enhancing the financial management practices of local education agencies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Training & Support:
• Develop and deliver comprehensive training sessions on financial topics, including but not limited to:
• Budget accounting and reporting (revenue simulation, expenditure tracking)
• Student enrollment categories, projections, and related funding
• End-of-year tax processing and receivables
• Annual levy certification and limitations, including legislative updates
• Truth in Taxation guidelines and support for required hearings
• K-12 school finance training for superintendents, principals, and new business managers
• Conduct training via in-person or virtual formats (large group, small group, or one-on-one).
• Coordinate logistics for training events, including registration, meeting venues, CEU requests, and evaluations.
• Liaison & Communication:
• Act as a liaison with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and other organizations on behalf of member districts.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with districts, vendors, partner organizations, and co-workers.
• Provide timely responses to inquiries and maintain a helpful and respectful attitude at all times.
• Financial Management Support:
• Assist districts in enhancing cash flow management, budgeting processes, long-range financial planning, and daily business office operations.
• Research and monitor legislation related to Taconite distributions, providing relevant data and training to districts.
• Technical Assistance & Reporting:
• Develop and generate financial reports to support standardized accounting and reporting for school districts in Minnesota.
• Perform Tax Reconciliation and General Education Receivable audits for member districts when time permits.
• Collaboration & Networking:
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with financial, auditing, and legislative experts to support district needs.
• Stay informed about regional and state-level finance training, bringing relevant materials back to share with districts.
• Additional Duties:
• Assist with the Summer Superintendent Session and other regional finance-related events.
• Present financial reports and training to member school boards when requested.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Educational Administration, Accounting, or related field.
• Proven experience in accounting or financial management, preferably within the education sector (e.g., business manager, accountant, fiscal services manager).
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Minnesota school district financial reporting standards and applicable laws.
• Skills & Competencies:
• Expertise in accounting principles and financial management.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to prepare training materials, reports, and deliver public presentations on complex financial topics.
• Proficient with spreadsheet software and financial systems for efficient data management.
• Ability to calculate and explain local property tax levies and other financial measures.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills in day-to-day accounting practices.
• Other Requirements:
• Must demonstrate professionalism, respect, and a helpful attitude in all interactions.
• Ability to maintain organization and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Physical Demands:

• Occasional travel required to attend training sessions, meetings, and events within the region.

Note: This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities. The role may evolve to include additional tasks as assigned by the Executive Director.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Accounting: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $105,000