Accounting Assistant

Under direct supervision of the Controller accomplishes objectives of the Finance Office, by performing a variety of accounting functions, including maintaining accounts and financial records and all accounts payable activities. Preparing payroll and maintaining payroll records. Preparing reports for funders, governments and other regulatory agencies. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.

This list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Receives and reconciles incoming invoices for accuracy and appropriate attachments prior to payment; notifies departments or vendors of errors and initiates corrective action
• Codes account numbers for distribution of costs, and inputs into accounts payable system
• Prepares and generates checks for vendors or other payees; obtains signatures on checks and sorts for distribution
• Organizes logs and filing system, according to established procedures
• Provides accounts payable information to appropriate staff
• Prepares Payroll for review including maintaining associated records
• Maintains professionalism and confidentiality
• Assists in the preparation of financial reports
• Researches accounts, as needed
• Contacts vendors and other payees to settle any discrepancies or problems regarding claims for payment
• Maintains liaison with accounting staff, vendors and other employees to correct errors and ensure effective processing of accounts payable
• Ensures accuracy, completeness and timeliness of all processing
• Maintains all appropriate documentation and generates reports, as required
• Maintains strict student confidentiality and compliance with the Family Education Right to Privacy
• Embodies Native Forward Core Values and promotes the Native Forward organization, staff and programs, in a positive and professional manner.
• Contributes to a team effort and accomplished related results
• Perform other duties as required

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate degree in Accounting, Finance or other related field and two years accounting experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Valid Driver’s License required. Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and background investigation.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills and Certifications:

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), including accounting, bookkeeping practices and record keeping procedures, as well as appropriate local, state and federal regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment
• Knowledge of research methods and techniques
• Knowledge of business English, proper spelling, grammar and punctuation 
• Ability to communicate effectively in the English language, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to maintain, interpret and analyze financial records
  
• Ability to apply concepts, such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situation
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and high standards of ethics
• Ability to follow oral and written instruction
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Ability to interact and maintain good working relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds, employees and officials
• Ability to meet strict timelines
• Skills in operating business computers and office machines, including various software applications, specifically Word, Excel, Access, presentation software (such as PowerPoint).
• Skill in using computerized accounting software programs, office equipment, including 10-key

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk. The employee, occasionally, is required to stand, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must, occasionally, lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed in an office setting, with a moderate noise level. Extended hours and irregular shifts may be required. Tight time constraints and multiple demands are common. Travel will be required for training, meetings, conferences, presentations, and other events.