What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Accountant position at The Episcopal Diocese of Vermont?
About Us:
The Episcopal Diocese of Vermont is a community of over 5,000 Episcopalians across 42 congregations, led by Bishop Shannon MacVean-Brown. We are committed to full inclusion, where race, gender, or sexual orientation are never barriers to leadership or belonging. Our mission centers on anti-racism, environmental sustainability, and building collaborative, economically vital congregations. Rooted in love and guided by the Holy Spirit, we work together across diverse communities to live out our faith with courage, compassion, and justice.
Position Overview:
The Senior Accountant is a self-motivated finance professional eager to lead day-to-day financial operations in a small, collaborative team. This role is ideal for someone who understands accounting principles, works independently, and can prioritize tasks effectively.
Key responsibilities include managing accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, and fund accounting (operating, designated, restricted, and endowment) for multiple legal entities.
This is a chance to bring your financial expertise to a values-driven, inclusive community committed to justice, sustainability, and spiritual growth.
Responsibilities:
· Oversee day-to-day finance and budget operations, including accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, month end close and related activities
· Manage and maintain accurate accounting for all Diocesan funds, including operating, designated, restricted, and endowment funds
· Support the preparation of grant proposals and collaborate with grantees to manage funds, track expenses, and complete required reporting
· Assist with the annual external audit of Diocesan financial accounts
· Produce ad hoc financial reports and analysis at the request of Diocesan leadership
· Ensure compliance with GAAP, auditing standards, and internal control policies
· Provide administrative support to senior staff, including handling mail, phone calls, database updates, and welcoming occasional visitors
· Assist treasurers, clergy, and lay leaders across congregations and Diocesan entities with financial guidance and support
· Collaborate with and support the part-time Chief Financial Officer, including preparation and review of reports
Additional Requirements:
· Work collaboratively with other members of the Diocesan staff
· Ensure appropriate confidentiality with personnel, financial records and personal matters, which are entrusted to the Finance Department
· Familiarity with the Episcopal Church helpful but not required
· This position requires on-site presence five days a week, with understanding and flexibility offered for occasional personal commitments outside of work
Education, Skills, and Experience:
· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required; CPA license preferred
· Minimum of 4 years of professional accounting experience
· Proficient in a range of accounting software and systems
· Eagerness to learn and adapt to proprietary databases and accounting platforms
Benefits for You:
· Health Insurance: 100% employer-paid coverage for individual employee plans
· Retirement Savings: 10% automatic employer contribution to your 403(b), in addition to your salary
· Time Off: Generous vacation and sick leave policies
· Work-Life Balance: A supportive culture that prioritizes your well-being both in and out of the workplace