Accountant / Bookkeeper

CompleteTalent (Pty) Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable construction firm in Cape Town is seeking a detail-oriented Accountant or Bookkeeper. The successful candidate will manage financial records, process accounts, ensure compliance with tax regulations, and prepare management reports. A solid understanding of financial principles related to the construction sector is essential, as well as proficiency in accounting software like Sage Pastel or Xero. This role requires at least 3–5 years of experience in accounting or bookkeeping, with a minimum of 2 years in a similar industry.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience, with at least 2 years in the construction or related industry.
• Strong understanding of South African tax laws (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax) and GAAP.
• Own reliable transport is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of South African tax laws (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax) and GAAP.
• Attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, and well-organized work approach.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records using accounting software.
• Process accounts payable and receivable.
• Reconcile bank statements, supplier accounts, and customer accounts.
• Handle payroll processing and ensure compliance with SARS regulations.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns accurately.
• Assist with project costing and expense tracking.
• Prepare monthly management reports.
• Prepare monthly management reports (P&L, balance sheet).
• Assist with budget prep and cash flow forecasting.
• Liaise with external auditors/accountants during year-end procedures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Ability to meet deadlines

Organizational skills

Communication

Education

Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

Tools

Sage Pastel

Xero

MS Excel

Job description

Our Client, a well-established company in the construction industry is looking for a detail-oriented and reliable Accountant or Bookkeeper to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of financial principles specific to the construction sector, including project costing, supplier management, and VAT compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records using accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, or Pastel).
• Process accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely payments and collections.
• Reconcile bank statements, supplier accounts, and customer accounts.
• Handle payroll processing, ensuring compliance with SARS regulations (PAYE, UIF, SDL).
• Prepare and submit VAT returns (VAT 201) accurately and on time.
• Assist with project costing, tracking expenses against specific construction contracts.
• Manage supplier invoices, subcontractor payments, and retention monies.
• Prepare monthly management reports, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets.
• Assist with budget preparation and cash flow forecasting.
• Liaise with external auditors and accountants during year-end procedures.

Requirements

• Education: Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience, with at least 2 years in the construction or related industry (essential).
• Software: Proficiency in Sage Pastel / Xero or similar and advanced MS Excel skills.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of South African tax laws (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax) and GAAP.
• Skills: Excellent attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, and strong organizational skills.
• Driver’s License: Own reliable transport is preferred.