What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Accountant position at Windham Southwest Supervisory Union?
Job Title: Senior Accountant
Location: Windham Southwest Supervisory Union (WSWSU)
The Windham Southwest Supervisory Union (WSWSU) is seeking a qualified Senior Accountant to collaborate with the Business Manager in overseeing the financial operations of the WSWSU and associated school districts. This role involves ensuring the accurate recording of transactions, performing financial analysis, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with governmental accounting standards (GAAP, GASB), district policies, and grant agreements.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial & Grant Recordkeeping:
Monitor and review all financial transactions for accuracy and compliance with district guidelines and accounting standards.
Oversee financial transactions related to grants, ensuring compliance with agreements.
Post journal entries, maintain the general ledger, and reconcile bank statements, addressing discrepancies as needed.
Accounts Receivable:
Handle billing for WSWSU assessments, school tuition, and other receivables.
Record amounts due in the general ledger, including state grants, and follow up on outstanding balances.
Ensure proper coding of cash receipts in the ledger.
Financial Reporting:
Prepare monthly financial statements and grant expenditure reports for the State of Vermont.
Generate financial reports for district administration, board members, and state agencies.
Analyze financial data to identify trends, potential issues, and areas for improvement.
Budget Management:
Assist in developing annual budgets for WSWSU and related districts.
Track budget expenditures and highlight opportunities for cost savings.
Compliance & Auditing:
Ensure adherence to all relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
Coordinate with external auditors to facilitate smooth audit processes.
Business Office Team Support:
Collaborate with the Business Manager to establish and enhance financial policies and procedures.
Mentor and support business office staff, delegating tasks and providing training on accounting procedures.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field.
Minimum of five years of experience in financial accounting, with a strong understanding of governmental accounting principles (GAAP, GASB). Experience in school district operations is a plus.
Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with internal and external stakeholders.