Senior Accountant

Diocese of Lansing; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Diocese of Lansing is seeking a Senior Accountant to join our finance team. This full-time, exempt position reports to the Controller and leads the month-end close, budgeting input, and reporting as requested.

You will work with Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable, monitor cash flow, assist with quarterly budget vs actuals and the annual audit preparation, and help strengthen internal controls across diocesan entities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of accounting experience with GAAP, fund accounting and internal controls.
• Experience in non-profit or religious organizations preferred.
• Strong project management, training and implementation skills required.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and ability to leverage technology for efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead month-end close processes and assist with budgeting and reporting.
• Support accounting functions for Diocese of Lansing, including related entities.
• Develop internal controls and improve accounting procedures.
• Ensure compliance with laws and diocesan policies.
• Coordinate with Accounts Payable/Receivable and assist audit prep.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

GAAP knowledge

Project management

Excel proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance

Tools

Accounting software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Diocese of Lansing is seeking a Senior Accountant. This is a full-time, exempt position that will reports to the Controller.

General Summary:

Motivated by the mission of our Bishop to make disciples and dedicated to serving the church in our diocese in a professional capacity, the position requires exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate well with all levels of staff. Primary responsibilities will be to lead all month-end close process to ensure deadlines are met. Responsible for providing information for budgeting and preparing reports as requested by the Controller.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with all accounting functions for the Diocese of Lansing as well as other entities we serve such as the Catholic Foundation, Parish Savings & Loan Trust (PSLT) and Diocese of Lansing Cemeteries, Inc.
• Serve as backup to the Controller as needed.
• Perform month-end closings, monitor general ledgers and financial statements, review journal entries and complete balance sheet and bank reconciliations.
• Work closely with Accounts Receivable & Accounts Payable staff. Serve as backup as needed.
• Review accounts receivable and loan reports; advise Controller on follow-up of delinquencies as necessary.
• Update/add vendors and customers as requested in accounting software.
• Monitor cash flow and investment accounts.
• Monitor all financial transactions and assist in the review process for accounts payable disbursements and ACH templates.
• Monitor actual monthly performance to the budget, keeping the Controller informed of variances.
• Provide quarterly budget vs actual information (or as needed) to department chairs and ministry personnel.
• Evaluate effectiveness of internal controls and efficiencies in accounting systems and procedures, recommending and implementing improvements as necessary.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with civil laws, government regulations and diocesan policies or procedures.
• Function as the lead project manager on accounting initiatives such as streamlining and integrating A/P procedures, budgeting systems and account reconciliations.
• Participate in the preparation of materials for the annual audit.
• Cultivate positive relationships with diocesan department chairs and ministry personnel, Pastors, parish staff, volunteers and parishioners.
• Perform special duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Education:

Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance.

Experience:

At least three to five years of accounting experience is required, with a working knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting and internal controls. Experience with a non-profit or religious organization is preferred. Project management, training & implementation skills are essential. Candidate must be a fluent user of Microsoft Excel, with experience using various accounting software and the ability to leverage technology to gain efficiency.

Require:

A fully supportive and energetic attitude toward the Church, her teachings and her work. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize and maintain confidentiality. Must have a valid driver's license.

Physical Demands:

While performing duties, employee may have to sit for long periods of time, use hands in repetitive motion tasks, and answer telephone calls. The position also requires some standing, stooping, and bending. Employee is expected to work onsite, Monday through Friday, with infrequent travel throughout the diocese as necessary. Employee must be able to lift or move up to 40 lbs.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work of the position. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills.