Job Description
Position Overview:
A bookkeeper is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s financial records. They play a crucial role in ensuring accurate financial data, proper recordkeeping, and adherence to financial regulations. Bookkeepers work closely with accountants, financial managers, and other members of the finance team to support financial decision-making and maintain the financial health of the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Recordkeeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including accounts payable and receivable, general ledger entries, payroll records, and bank reconciliations.
- Data Entry: Enter financial transactions into the accounting software or spreadsheet, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.
- Accounts Payable: Process and track vendor invoices, verify expenses, and ensure timely payments. Maintain a systematic filing system for invoices and supporting documentation.
- Accounts Receivable: Monitor customer accounts, generate and send invoices, and track incoming payments. Follow up on overdue payments and resolve any billing discrepancies.
- General Ledger Maintenance: Record and classify financial transactions in the general ledger. Ensure proper allocation and coding of expenses and income.
- Financial Reporting: Prepare financial reports, including balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, and other financial analyses as required. Present financial data to management or external stakeholders.
- Payroll Processing: Calculate and process employee payroll, including salary/wage calculations, deductions, and benefits. Ensure compliance with tax regulations and timely submission of payroll taxes.
- Tax Compliance: Assist in gathering financial data and preparing documentation for tax filings. Collaborate with external accountants or auditors during tax audits or financial reviews.
- Financial Analysis: Analyze financial data to identify trends, patterns, and discrepancies. Assist in budgeting and forecasting activities and provide insights to support decision-making.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with financial regulations, laws, and company policies. Stay updated on changes in accounting standards and recommend necessary adjustments.
- Communication and Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, such as finance, administration, and operations, to gather and provide financial information. Communicate effectively with stakeholders and respond to inquiries related to financial matters.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience or a relevant certification (e.g., Certified Bookkeeper) may be considered.
- Proven experience as a bookkeeper or in a similar role, preferably in a business or nonprofit organization.
- Strong knowledge of bookkeeping principles, financial processes, and accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant software applications.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and recordkeeping.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve discrepancies or issues.
- Understanding of tax regulations and compliance requirements.
- Strong communication skills to interact with colleagues and stakeholders effectively.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive financial information with discretion.