Assistant Accountant

Bright Placements; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Placements is seeking an Assistant Accountant to support the finance team in Bryanston, Gauteng. The role focuses on accurate financial record-keeping, month-end close, reconciliations, and reporting under IFRS and SA tax guidelines.

The ideal candidate has 2–5 years’ experience in accounting, strong Excel skills, and experience with Sage Pastel or similar packages. Diploma or degree in accounting and progress towards SAIPA/SAICA/ACCA is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• SAIPA/SAICA/ACCA/CIMA studies advantageous.
• 2–5 years’ experience in an Assistant Accountant or accounting role.

Responsibilities

• Process supplier invoices, payments and expense claims accurately.
• Maintain AP and AR ledgers.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly bank reconciliations.
• Prepare general ledger reconciliations and journal entries.
• Assist with month-end and year-end close procedures.
• Assist with payroll processing and payroll reconciliations.

Skills

Excel

Attention to detail

Analytical ability

Time management

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

Studying SAIPA/SAICA/ACCA/CIMA

Tools

Sage Pastel

Sage Evolution

Xero

QuickBooks

SAP

Oracle

Microsoft Dynamics

Job description

The Assistant Accountant is responsible for supporting the finance department by maintaining accurate financial records, assisting with month-end processes, preparing reconciliations, processing financial transactions, and ensuring compliance with company policies and accounting standards. The role requires excellent attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work accurately under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

• Process supplier invoices, payments, and expense claims accurately and timeously.
• Maintain the accounts payable and accounts receivable ledgers.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly bank reconciliations.
• Prepare general ledger reconciliations and journal entries.
• Assist with month-end and year-end financial closing procedures.
• Reconcile supplier and customer accounts and resolve discrepancies.
• Prepare VAT schedules and assist with statutory submissions.
• Assist with payroll processing and payroll reconciliations where required.
• Maintain fixed asset registers.
• Prepare financial reports and management reports.
• Monitor cash flow and assist with budgeting and forecasting.
• Ensure all financial records are accurately maintained and filed.
• Assist during internal and external audits.
• Ensure compliance with accounting policies, tax legislation, and internal controls.
• Liaise with suppliers, customers, banks, and internal departments regarding financial queries.
• Perform general finance administration and other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Office-based position in Bryanston, Gauteng.
• Standard Monday to Friday working hours, with occasional overtime during month-end, year-end, and audit periods.

Minimum Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Studying towards SAIPA, SAICA, CIMA, ACCA, or a similar professional qualification will be advantageous.

Experience

• 2–5 years' experience in an Assistant Accountant or Accounting role.
• Experience with month-end processes and reconciliations.
• Previous experience in a corporate or professional finance environment is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience using accounting software such as Sage Pastel, Sage Evolution, Xero, QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics.
• Good understanding of IFRS principles and South African tax legislation.
• Strong numerical and analytical ability.
• Excellent reconciliation skills.
• Ability to prepare financial reports accurately.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organisational and planning skills.
• High level of accuracy.
• Analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Professional integrity and confidentiality.

Personal Attributes

• Honest and trustworthy.
• Highly organised.
• Self-motivated and proactive.
• Reliable and dependable.
• Professional appearance and conduct.
• Willingness to learn and develop professionally.

Advantageous Requirements

• Experience with ERP systems.
• Knowledge of payroll processing.
• Experience preparing VAT and tax reconciliations.
• Experience working in a multi-company or group finance environment.