Part-Time Finance Assistant

Finance Assistant

Job Description

Class: Non-Exempt, Part-Time                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            June 2026

Location: Merriam (On-site)

Reports to: Accounting Manager

Salary Range: $21 - $26 hourly 

Great Plains SPCA located in Merriam, KS is the highest rated shelter in the Kansas City area that serves 7,000 animals and 500,000 residents annually. We are a results driven organization built on resiliency, compassion, inclusion, and accountability.

• Are you ready for a job that keeps you on your toes, both mentally and physically? 
• Are you looking for a job where "predictable" is a dirty word?
• Are you as consistent as a cat's unwavering demand for treats at 3 a.m.? 
• Want to make a daily difference for community pets?

At Great Plains SPCA, no role exists solely behind a desk. We believe every team member, regardless of department or title, plays a direct part in caring for the animals we serve. Whether it's walking dogs, folding laundry, spending one-on-one time socializing a cat, helping during an emergency, or stepping into operations when needed, we expect all employees to contribute to the daily care and wellbeing of our pets. If you're looking for a traditional office job where your work begins and ends at your desk, this may not be the right fit. If you're excited to be part of a mission where everyone pitches in to help animals, we'd love to meet you.

Position Summary: The Finance Assistant supports the daily operations of the Finance Department by accurately processing transactions, maintaining organized financial records, assisting with accounts payable, and supporting month-end and year-end tasks. This position requires strong attention to detail, reliability, confidentiality, and the ability to work in a fast-paced animal shelter environment where priorities may shift based on organizational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Process all incoming mail, bank transactions, credit card transactions, deposits, and other financial activities accurately and in a timely manner.
• Support month-end and year-end close activities by preparing documentation, assisting with reconciliations, and organizing financial records as directed.
• Assist the Accounting Manager with retail system maintenance, reconciliations, tracking, and reporting.
• Process accounts payable invoices and payments, ensuring timely processing and adherence to organizational policies.
• Review, monitor, and accurately code company expenses in compliance with internal policies and accounting standards.
• Enter financial data into accounting software and spreadsheets with a high degree of accuracy, completeness, and attention to detail.
• Prepare and organize supporting documentation for internal and external audits while maintaining organized financial records.
• Collaborate with internal departments to gather financial information, answer routine finance-related questions, and provide excellent customer service.
• Identify discrepancies or process issues and promptly communicate them to the Accounting Manager, contributing to continuous improvement within the Finance Department.
• Perform other finance-related duties as assigned to support departmental operations.
• Participate in all shelter duties as assigned, including daily animal handling, in support of the organization's mission.

Key Competencies 

• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and the ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy with a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Reliable, accountable, and dependable, with strong follow-through and a sense of ownership over assigned responsibilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying discrepancies and improving processes.
• Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to shift priorities to meet changing organizational needs.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently while recognizing when to seek guidance or escalate concerns.
• Collaborative team player who builds positive working relationships and provides outstanding internal customer service.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate professionally across all levels of the organization.
• Commitment to supporting the mission, values, and culture of Great Plains SPCA through a positive attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed.

Experience Requirements 

• One (1) to three (3) years of experience in a finance, accounting, bookkeeping, or accounts payable role required; relevant internships may be considered.
• Proficiency with accounting software required; experience with QuickBooks Online preferred.
• Working knowledge of accounting principles and financial recordkeeping.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; advanced Excel skills preferred.
• Knowledge of or experience working in animal welfare or with animals preferred.

Additional Requirements 

• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Successfully pass a background check.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds to waist height.
• Ability to safely walk, handle, and restrain animals weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Ability and willingness to participate in daily animal handling and other shelter-related responsibilities as needed in support of the organization's mission.

Work Conditions 

• Regular schedule is Monday through Friday; afternoon schedule may apply for part-time positions.
• Work is performed in both an office and active animal shelter environment.
• Must be comfortable working around dogs and cats of all ages, sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, carrying, and other physical activities associated with office and shelter operations.
• Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases, dangerous or fractious animals, cleaning chemicals, allergens, and high noise levels is inherent to the shelter environment.
• Work priorities and assignments may change based on organizational and operational needs, requiring flexibility and adaptability.

At Will Employment

There is no minimum period of employment guaranteed or implied by acceptance of an employment offer. It is the policy of Great Plains SPCA that employment is at will, which means that the employment is for no specific term and that employment may be terminated by the employee or Great Plains SPCA at any time without cause. 

Great Plains is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or for any basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with Great Plains SPCA depends solely on your qualifications. 

Note: This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. You may be required to perform other related duties within your skill set as negotiated and/or directed to meet the ongoing needs of your department and the organization.

GPSPCA is an engaging, mission‑driven workplace where our team and the animals we serve come first. We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous PTO, Days of Significance, and 9 paid holidays
• 100% employer‑covered mental health support
• Disability and life insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Discounts on veterinary care, retail store items, and GPSPCA event tickets