What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part-time Bookkeeper position at Catholic Diocese of Lansing?
St. Joseph in Howell is seeking a part-time (18 hours/week 4 days per week Monday-Thursday) bookkeeper. The position reports to the Business Manager and may supervise volunteers.
General Summary: This position assists with the ministry of the parish by performing all bookkeeping duties to ensure proper maintenance of accounting records, assists with processing of receivables, payables, payroll and management of parish database according to Diocesan policy. The position may also prepares routine and special accounting reports. The incumbent directs these efforts with technical expertise within a framework of shared ministry and Catholic values.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
A. General Bookkeeping Duties
- Responsible for assisting with the accounts payable function after proper department approval, check preparation and filing.
- Maintains parish offerings/contributions by posting contributions weekly including online giving to the contribution software.
- Uses an accrual accounting system.
- Develops and maintains all accounting records and files (paid invoices, W-9, insurance certificate, etc.).
- Gathers data upon request for use by the parish and diocese. Prepares weekly financial information for bulletin.
- Processes the parish weekly deposit, reconciling to the parish receipt book to ensure things are recorded and proper policy is followed.
- Stays abreast of changes to diocesan benefits, employee handbook, and other related policies. Assists Business Manager to communicate updates to staff.
- Maintains open lines of communication with other members of parish staff and committees.
- Responsible for maintaining the parish data base, new parishioner registrations and thank you/donation letters.
- Generates statistic reports and mailing list as requested from database.
- Maintains FAITH Magazine and DSA data base and records.
- Follows up on return mail.
- Works with designated vendor (Church Budget) to ensure current parishioners receive bi-monthly offering envelopes.
- Prepares and compiles annual contribution statements by January 31st to be distributed to parishioners upon request.
- Oversees the volunteers who count the Sunday collection. Ensures they follow proper internal control procedures and assist with any questions.
- Creates yearly schedule for Sunday collection counters
- Parish mailings / bulk mail coordinator (DSA, Parish Raffle, special mailings, etc.).
- Maintains access to restricted keys.
B. Specific Tasks to Support the Business Manager
- Directs staff to the appropriate support when they have questions for benefits (insurance and retirement).
- Assists Business Manager in preparing the annual report and various budgets.
- Handles sensitive information confidentially.
- May assist with accounting needs such as school tuition and bank reconciliations.
- Assist with special projects as needed.
- May research various means to increase parish efficiency in spending.
- May assist Parish Secretary as a back-up. Answering phones and greeting parishioners.
- Creates the annual offertory weekly budget document.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Education: Associates degree or equivalent with significant coursework in accounting.
Experience: Minimum of three years of experience with standard accounting practices, office procedures, and business etiquette. Must be fluent in Microsoft Excel and Word. Familiarity with accounting software preferred.
Required: 1. Must be a practicing Catholic, active in a parish.
2. Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
3. Must maintain Virtus trained certificate.
4. Some weekend work may be required.
5. Must have good interpersonal skills and familiarity with the Church as an organization.
6. Must work and collaborate effectively with the Pastor, parishioners, parish staff, and parish committees/commissions.
7. Is self-motivated and willing to serve.
8. Excellent communication skills.
9. Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
10. Strong attention to detail.
11. Experience with standard accounting practices, office procedures, and business etiquette.
12. Works independently.
13. Capable in managing multiple projects/tasks at one time.
14. Demonstrates good judgment and is able to discern when discretion is needed.
Physical Demands: While performing duties, employee has 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 while filing. Employee is expected to work onsite, with minimal travel.
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.
To apply for the position, please submit a cover letter and resume to the online application.