Accountant II

OUR MISSION

St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is the independent economic development agency serving the City of St. Louis. Missouri. It is an action-oriented organization that exists to empower, develop and transform St. Louis through a vibrant, just and growing economy where all people can thrive.

OUR VISION

SLDC is a place-based, people-centric catalyst for growth in St. Louis. Our core values guide everything we do. As implementors of a robust set of projects, programs and policies, SLDC responsibly deploys a myriad of initiatives designed to reverse disproportionate disparities in disinvested areas, infuses capital into the community and creatively collaborates with our commercial and residential neighbors.

SLDC is the only economic development organization trusted to serve the best interests of all St. Louisans.

The long-term initiatives implemented by SLDC will propel St. Louis forward for decades to come. As we evolve, redefine and reimagine economic development for the next generation, SLDC expects to achieve significant social and financial returns. The result is expanding the tax base, improving the economic, health and educational outcomes for every existing resident of St. Louis and attracting new residents.

POSITION OVERVIEW

SLDC seeks a mid-level accounting professional to maintain financial records, perform reconciliations, and ensure compliance with grant funding requirements. Under general supervision, this role emphasizes cash receipts, cash reconciliation, and grant/work program management, mainly related to Community Development Block Grants, Port Authority funds, and Land Revitalization Authority funds. This role also maintains accounting and financial records, and prepares financial analysis summaries, statements and reports. Under direct supervision, keep journals, ledgers, and other financial records that require application of bookkeeping knowledge to routine account maintenance. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently, analyze complex data, pay attention and manage details, and effectively and efficiently utilize current technology like Excel, fund accounting software, and electronic payment and receivables systems. Successful candidates must also demonstrate excellent communication skills and can collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders. Additional responsibilities include payroll reconciliations, financial statement preparation, and supporting audits by maintaining accurate documentation and developing process efficiencies.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE

• Grant Management: Prepare requisitions and documentation for grant funds, emphasizing Community Development Block Grants, Port funds, and LRA funds. Monitor the process of grant funds. Ensure cash disbursements with grant funds are made timely and are charged to the proper grant. Prepare work program budget revisions. Prepare adjustments as needed for various State and Federal Grants. Prepare and reconcile various grant financial reports. Prepare monthly spreadsheets and monitor variances in budgets.
• General Accounting: Prepare cash deposits and cash deposit data entry forms. Prepare other invoices and vouchers related to cash receipts. Perform bank reconciliations. Perform audit and reconciliation related to garage revenue. Prepare and post monthly journal transactions. Prepare any financial statement-related reports as assigned. Prepare accounting reports required by outside agencies. Prepare monthly spreadsheets and monitor variances in budgets. Identify errors and/or trends in accounting data and proactively initiate regular communication with management to resolve errors and facilitate solutions.
• Payroll: Review payroll data for accuracy and consistency. Monthly reconciliations of employee fringe benefits to the general ledger, paid invoices, and payroll deductions. Prepare selected payroll reports, including agency personnel schedules for various funding sources, and review agency retirement contribution reports. Reconcile quarterly and annual payroll tax returns to general ledger and annual audit for workers compensation insurance.
• General Administration: Maintain documentation and files associated with work in progress and completed. Assist the Accounting Department in developing and maintaining detailed documentation of all processes, policies, and procedures for the Agency. Assist with preparing necessary documents for audits. Develop efficiencies using systems and technology.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of duties or responsibilities that are required for this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, or as assigned.

WHAT QUALIFIES YOU

The ideal candidate for this position would likely have extensive experience in financial leadership, ideally in nonprofit organizations, economic development, or related fields such as business or government. They also have a proven track record in managing grant compliance, financial reporting, and budgeting for complex organizations with multiple stakeholders and funding sources. The ideal candidate is strategic, detail-oriented, proactive, and able to identify financial risks and opportunities while driving process improvements.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• Qualifications include a minimum of B.A. / B.S. in accounting with at least three years of public or not-for-profit accounting experience.
• A minimum of three years of general ledger accounting experience in preparing financial statements is required.
• Requires strong accounting research skills with excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Experience managing grants is a plus.
• Must be able to work independently with moderate supervision.
• Must demonstrate above-average proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables and analysis tools.
• Experience with funding accounting software such as MIP Fund Accounting a plus.
• Demonstrated expertise in grant compliance, financial reporting, and budgeting, including managing restricted and unrestricted funds.
• Experienced communicator with excellent interpersonal skills, able to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including board members, funders, and external partners.
• Technical proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Google Suite, and other relevant financial software.
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies as required by the role.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Professional Integrity: Demonstrates honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct in all financial activities. Takes responsibility for actions and fosters trust within the organization.
• Accountability & Accuracy: Ensures financial reports and deliverables are completed with precision and timeliness. Maintains attention to detail while supporting SLDCs financial and operational goals.
• Sound Judgment: Applies critical thinking and financial expertise to make informed decisions. Ensures accuracy and consistency in financial processes, aligning with SLDCs mission.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Works effectively within the finance team and across departments. Contributes to a cooperative work environment and supports colleagues in achieving shared objectives.
• Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicates professionally, listens actively, and constructively manages challenges. Maintains confidentiality and fosters a respectful workplace.
• Financial Communication: Conveys financial concepts to various audiences, ensuring data is accessible and actionable. Responds effectively to questions and feedback.
• Written Communication: Prepares concise and accurate financial reports, correspondence, and documentation to support informed decision-making.
• Organizational Commitment: Adheres to company policies, meets deadlines, and ensures financial tasks align with SLDCs objectives and compliance requirements.
• Professionalism: Maintains composure under pressure, handles challenges tactfully, and treats all stakeholders respectfully. Follows through on commitments.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to evolving financial and operational demands, manages multiple priorities effectively, and remains flexible in responding to changes.
• Reliability & Punctuality: Consistently meets deadlines and fulfills financial responsibilities with dependability and efficiency. Proactively communicates when adjustments are needed.

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is a full-time, exempt position with a standard benefits package, including health coverage and paid time off. While our traditional work hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., SLDC provides a flexible/hybrid work environment that includes a work schedule of 40 hours per week for full-time employees. Evening and weekend work are required as job duties demand them.

SLDC is committed to building a team with diverse experiences and perspectives. SLDC strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ candidates and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, or any statuses protected by law.