Purchasing and Accounting Specialist
Salina Public Schools, Business Office

The job of Purchasing and Accounting Specialist is performed for the purpose of managing accounts payable, facilitating procurement processes, maintaining accurate financial and inventory records, and ensuring compliance with district, agency, and program guidelines. This role supports the efficient operation of the Business Services Department by combining purchasing and accounting expertise.

Essential Functions:

• Budget Management: Assists the Director of Business in preparing budgets, determining internal allocations, and maintaining proper fund balances to ensure accurate and effective financial planning.
• Procurement: Supports the purchasing of capital outlay items and ensures competitive pricing by researching products and cost options. Collaborates with district personnel to analyze procurement needs and payment processes. Monitors vendor accounts, purchasing cards and plans for the purpose of ensuring proper payment for goods and services.
• Accounts Payable: Processes and reconciles a variety of fiscal transactions, including payment authorizations, journal entries, and invoices, to ensure timely and accurate payment in accordance with established accounting procedures.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepares and composes reports, memos, manuals, and other documentation to provide clear records of financial and purchasing activities while ensuring compliance with internal and external guidelines.
• Audit Support: Assists external and internal auditors by providing necessary documentation, performing internal audits of activity funds, and ensuring compliance with district and state requirements.
• Inventory Management: Monitors and maintains records of inventory, vendor contracts, and purchase requisitions to ensure adequate stock levels and efficient purchasing practices.
• Financial Monitoring: Tracks fund balances, monitors internal controls, and ensures expenses align with budget limits. Recommends actions to enhance efficiency and compliance in financial operations.
• Staff Support and Training: Provides guidance to personnel regarding financial procedures, including budget modifications, reporting requirements, and activity fund management. Trains activity fund bookkeepers in tasks such as sales tax reporting, reconciliations, and fee collections.
• Issue Resolution: Researches and resolves discrepancies in financial information, vendor payments, and compliance documents to ensure accuracy and adherence to policies.
• Operational Support: Recommends and implements procedural improvements to streamline purchasing and accounting processes. Collaborates with other personnel to support departmental activities effectively.

• See attached Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proficiency in operating standard office and accounting software as well as record-keeping. Must be able to effectively convey complex information to a wide range of employees. Requires strong organizational and project management skills.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and fund accounting practices as well as State and district financial regulations and compliance requirements. Experience with purchasing procedures, vendor management, and inventory control.
• Must be able to adapt to shifting priorities and collaborate effectively with diverse individuals and teams. Must possess strong problem-solving skills to assess issues, propose solutions, and ensure compliance with guidelines. Must have effective time management skills to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and uphold confidentiality.

Experience: Job-related experience in accounting, purchasing, or a related field.
Education: Targeted job-related education that meets the organization’s prerequisites.

Starting Pay: Classified Salary Schedule, Range 25. $22.19 - $23.55 per hour.