What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accountant position at Volunteers of America of Alaska?
Reports to: Controller
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
Position Overview:
The ideal candidate will be experienced in non-profit accounting, have a strong attention to detail, and be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. This role is integral to the finance team and works closely with the Controller and the Accounts Payable/Payroll Generalist to ensure smooth financial operations, including compliance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 standards.
VOA Alaska is a youth-serving organization providing prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery supports to youth and families struggling with mental illness and addiction. We are honored to walk with families during these times and provide support and hope through recovery. Our core values are connection, responsibility, courage, innovation, hope, and joy. We are looking for individuals who espouse these core values and align with this mission of services to the community.
Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities:
General Ledger Management:
- Maintain the general ledger, including preparing and entering journal entries and reconciling accounts monthly.
- Ensure accurate and timely recording of financial transactions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Assist the Controller with month-end and year-end closing processes.
Financial Reporting:
- Prepare monthly financial reports for internal stakeholders, ensuring that all data is accurate and up to date.
- Assist in the preparation of financial statements and supporting schedules for the annual audit.
- Provide analysis and insight into financial data, supporting department leaders with financial reporting needs.
Grant Accounting:
- Track and manage all grant-related transactions in coordination with the Controller and program leadership.
- Ensure compliance with grant requirements and prepare supporting documentation for grant reports.
- Assist with the preparation and submission of financial reports for grantors, ensuring all deadlines are met.
Accounts Receivable:
- Monitor accounts receivable and ensure timely collection of funds from grantors and other funding sources.
- Prepare and send invoices to funders and monitor the receipt of payments.
- Work closely with the Accounts Payable/Payroll Generalist to ensure accurate cash flow management.
Compliance and Internal Controls:
- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, internal controls, and VOA Alaska policies.
- Maintain compliance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 standards, ensuring the confidentiality of patient information in financial transactions.
- Assist the Controller in implementing and maintaining strong internal controls and financial policies.
Support for Budgeting and Forecasting:
- Assist the Controller and VP in the development of the annual organizational budget and program-specific budgets.
- Monitor budget variances and provide detailed analysis to assist in decision-making and resource allocation.
Other Duties:
- Assist the Controller and VP in various financial projects and initiatives as needed.
- Provide support during the annual audit, including gathering and organizing necessary documentation.
- Collaborate with other members of the finance team to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
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Experience:
- 2 years of accounting experience, preferably in a non-profit setting.
- Familiarity with non-profit accounting standards and principles, including grant accounting, is highly desirable.
- Experience working with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 compliance is a plus but not required.
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Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in accounting software (experience with QuickBooks or similar systems preferred).
- Advanced Excel skills and the ability to work with complex spreadsheets and financial reporting tools.
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Competencies:
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Effective communication skills and a collaborative attitude.
- Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
- All members of the workforce will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to VOA’s vision and mission and will consistently demonstrate its values in all areas of their work. Moreover, everyone is expected to demonstrate collaboration and teamwork, accept direction, feedback and coaching, and prove themselves to be a reliable and consistent resource to clients and colleagues.
Preferred Skills and Attributes:
- Knowledge of non-profit grant compliance and management.
- Familiarity with federal grant guidelines, including OMB Circulars and Uniform Guidance.
- Experience with implementing and following internal financial controls.
- Passion for nonprofit work and alignment with VOA Alaska’s mission of empowering Alaskans to improve their quality of life.
Working Conditions
The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- May work in office areas. Interacts with staff, consultants, and outside vendors. May be subjected to interruptions throughout the workday.
- While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 25 pounds. The vision requirement includes close vision.
Acknowledgement
Every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of this position. However, this job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties you may be required to perform. The omission of specific descriptions of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or can be considered essential to this position.