What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accounting Specialist position at The Cutting Edge?
The Cutting Edge, a premier tree care and landscaping company on Kauai, is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Accounting Specialist to join our team. The Accounting Specialist will be responsible for managing the company's financial transactions, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations. This role requires strong organizational skills, proficiency in accounting software, and a commitment to supporting the financial health of a small, service-based business in a dynamic environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in bookkeeping, payroll, and financial reporting.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Transactions and Recordkeeping:
- Process accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR), including invoicing clients, recording payments, and managing vendor bills.
- Reconcile bank accounts, credit card statements, and petty cash on a monthly basis.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records using accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, or similar).
- Record and categorize expenses, ensuring proper allocation to job costs, overhead, and other accounts.
- Payroll and Employee Compensation:
- Process bi-weekly or monthly payroll for employees, including calculating wages, overtime, and deductions.
- Ensure accurate withholding and remittance of federal, state, and local payroll taxes.
- Manage employee benefits, such as health insurance deductions and retirement contributions.
- Prepare and file required payroll reports, including W-2s and 1099s.
- Financial Reporting and Analysis:
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
- Assist in budgeting and forecasting activities, providing insights into revenue, expenses, and profitability.
- Analyze financial data to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for improvement.
- Support the Business Manager in preparing financial reports for stakeholders or external audits.
- Compliance and Taxation:
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations, including sales tax, excise tax, and income tax filings.
- Prepare and file required tax returns, such as Hawaii General Excise Tax (GET) and federal income tax.
- Stay informed about changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and regulations affecting small businesses.
- Assist with audits, providing documentation and responding to inquiries from auditors or tax authorities.
- Job Costing and Project Support:
- Track and allocate costs associated with tree care and landscaping projects, including labor, materials, and equipment.
- Collaborate with project managers to ensure accurate job costing and profitability analysis.
- Provide financial data to support pricing decisions, contract bids, and project budgets.
- Administrative and Operational Support:
- Assist with vendor and client communications related to billing, payments, and account inquiries.
- Maintain organized digital and physical files for financial documents, contracts, and records.
- Support the Business Manager with ad-hoc financial tasks, such as grant applications or loan documentation.
- Contribute to process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in financial operations.
Qualifications
- Required:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in bookkeeping, accounting, or a similar role.
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, or similar).
- Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and tax regulations.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in financial recordkeeping.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for financial analysis and reporting.
- Preferred:
- Experience working in a small business or service-based industry, such as landscaping, construction, or tree care.
- Familiarity with Hawaii-specific tax regulations, including General Excise Tax (GET).
- Experience with payroll processing and compliance using payroll software (e.g., ADP, Gusto, or similar).
- Certification in accounting or bookkeeping (e.g., Certified Bookkeeper (CB), QuickBooks ProAdvisor).
- Knowledge of job costing and project-based accounting.
- Skills and Attributes:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with team members and clients.
- High level of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive financial information.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on accounting best practices.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a desk or computer.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies or files weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks, such as data entry, with accuracy.
Work Environment
- This position is primarily office-based, with occasional opportunities for remote work, depending on company needs.
- Work hours are typically Monday to Friday, with occasional overtime during peak periods (e.g., tax season, year-end closing).
- The role involves collaboration with team members in the office and occasional visits to job sites for project-related tasks.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly or salaried wage, based on experience and qualifications.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development, including accounting software training and certification support.
- Employee discounts on tree care and landscaping services.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment with a focus on teamwork and growth.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $30