Accounting Associate

Accounting Associate

Updated: May 2026

Position: Accounting Associate

Reports To: Controller

FLSA Status: Part-time, Non-Exempt

Hours: 30 hours per week – Onsite

Hourly Rate: $27–$32 per hour, depending on experience.

Interested Candidates Email accounting@lagunaartmuseum.org

About the Position

Laguna Art Museum is seeking a detail-oriented Accounting Associate to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to work onsite in beautiful Laguna Beach, supporting the museum’s financial operations as we transition our day-to-day accounting fully in-house. You will work closely with and learn from an experienced Controller with a deep background in nonprofit finance.

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with two to three years of hands-on accounting experience, strong QuickBooks Online skills, experience with donor database systems, and a passion for accuracy. If you are interested in the arts, value a collaborative workplace, and want to make a difference in the nonprofit sector, we would love to hear from you.

Position Summary

The Accounting Associate supports the museum’s financial operations by performing general accounting functions with accuracy and attention to detail. The selected candidate will assist the Controller in managing regular accounting workflows, including transaction processing, reconciliations, documentation gathering, audit preparation, and budget support. This role also involves updating monthly and ad-hoc financial reports.

Key Responsibilities (include but are not limited to)

• Receive, open, and process mail related to finances.

• Verify invoices and prepare purchase orders and payments.

• Distribute or initiate payments by check.

• Log, track, and process financial transactions, ensuring proper account coding.

• Verify and reconcile monthly credit card statements and bank transactions.

• Record journal entries under supervision, following nonprofit accounting standards.

• Review reports, filings, and billings for accuracy and consistency.

• Track and file contracts, financial documents, tax forms, and statements.

• Research and resolve discrepancies in collaboration with staff and vendors.

• Maintain accurate vendor and customer records.

• Support preparation of annual operating and event budgets.

• Prepare and log bank deposits.

• Assist in gathering documentation for the annual audit.

• Maintain financial controls and follow established internal procedures.

• Follow nonprofit-specific accounting policies and procedures.

• Assist in the use of accounting, ticketing, and point-of-sale systems.

• Maintain organized online and physical filing systems.

• Perform other accounting support tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in accounting, finance, or related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• Minimum of two to three years of hands-on accounting experience.

• Minimum of two to three years of QuickBooks Online experience required.

• Solid understanding of accounting principles, including debits and credits.

• Experience with donor databases preferred.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; strong comfort with spreadsheets.

• Strong attention to detail and high level of integrity.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts clearly.

• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

Valid California State Driver's License with acceptable driving record.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

This position requires frequent computer use and general office duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential

functions.

Key Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• High level of integrity and discretion with confidential information.

• Clear and effective communicator.

• Collaborative and positive attitude; willingness to learn.

• Adaptable and able to prioritize in a dynamic environment.

• Interest in a mission-driven work is a plus.