Staff Accountant - Grants & Payroll (Public Sector)

Capital Area Transit System (CATS); Baton Rouge (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Capital Area Transit System (CATS) is seeking an experienced Staff Accountant to join the Finance team in Baton Rouge. The role covers accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, reconciliations, grants, payroll, pension accounting, and month-end close, within a public-sector setting.

The ideal candidate balances deadlines with accuracy and compliance, leveraging advanced Excel and ERP experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Accounting/Finance or equivalent experience
• 3–5 years of relevant accounting experience, with AP emphasis
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and processes
• Experience with accounting, payroll, or ERP systems
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

Responsibilities

• Manage full-cycle accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• Process and review high-volume invoices with proper coding and documentation.
• Perform three-way matching and resolve discrepancies.
• Prepare weekly vendor payments and AR aging reports.
• Prepare journal entries and monthly reconciliations.
• Support month-end and year-end close processes.
• Maintain audit-ready accounting records and internal controls.
• Assist with financial reporting and analysis.
• Support grants accounting, reporting, and funding collections.
• Assist with audits (internal, external, grant, pension).
• Process payroll functions and provide backup payroll processing.

Skills

Advanced Excel

High-volume accounting

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Multi-priority management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Associate degree in Accounting or Finance with relevant experience

Tools

Netchex

Tyler/Munis

ERP systems

Job description

Capital Area Transit System (CATS) is seeking an experienced Staff Accountant to join the Finance team in Baton Rouge. The role covers accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, reconciliations, grants, payroll, pension accounting, and month-end close, within a public-sector setting.

The ideal candidate balances deadlines with accuracy and compliance, leveraging advanced Excel and ERP experience.