Staff Accountant

This is an at-will, non-partisan position. The Staff Accountant, under the direct supervision of the LRS Director, operates within predetermined guidelines issued by the LRS Board of Trustees and accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). The Staff Accountant analyzes accounting entries, reconciles accounting data, and assists with the year-end accounting process and annual audit. The Staff Accountant monitors office allotment expenditures. This individual acts as team leader for accounts payable by reviewing payments, assisting in work organization, and helping find solutions. Additionally, the Staff Accountant will make recommendations for improvements, controls, new methods and other changes to improve the efficiency of the accounting and data processing systems and work with the LRS Director on departmental initiatives.

Overview of Responsibilities

The staff accountant is responsible for a wide range of tasks designed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the LRS’ financial information.

• Reconciles accounting data, prepares journal vouchers, and reclasses accounting entries in State of Michigan and internal accounting systems. Identifies and resolves discrepancies.
• Prepares monthly recurring journal entries.
• Maintain and update financial records, including ledgers, journals, and account reconciliations
• Prepare, review, and analyze financial statements and reports to identify analytical trends and discrepancies
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies
• Process accounts payable and receivable, including invoices and payments
• Computer skills in Microsoft Office, including spreadsheets to organize, track, and report financial information
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to internal controls and accounting procedures
• Provide insights and recommendations to Director for improving financial performance and efficiency
• Provide professional phone-based customer service

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
• CPA or other professional accounting designation preferred
• Four years or more of accounting or auditing experience preferred
• Experience in governmental budgeting and the appropriation process preferred
• Experience with the State of Michigan financial systems and Financial Management Guide preferred
• Other combinations of education and experience evaluated on an individual basis

Skills and Knowledge Required

• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Exhibit strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Display meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy
• Maintain integrity and uphold ethical standards in all financial activities
• Work efficiently both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, management, and external stakeholders
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of information
• Ability to work in a professional and nonpartisan manner
• Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with retirees, staff, vendors, and other agencies