Accounting Clerk

Farella Braun + Martel LLP•San Francisco, CA

10d•$31 - $36•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with an accounting/finance degree and office experience to grow their experience and learn in a professional, law firm environment. The Accounting Clerk supports the delivery of quality legal services and the efficient financial operations of the firm by managing cash receipts, client trust accounts, accounts receivable (A/R), accounts payable (A/P), and related accounting functions. Ensures all transactions are processed accurately, timely, and in compliance with firm policies and California State Bar guidelines. Acts as a key resource for financial inquiries, collections support, vendor coordination, and payment processing. This position is a flexible hybrid position requiring working in-person in San Francisco at least three days per week.

Requirements

Prior office experience is required.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field of study preferred.
Proficient in the use of MS Office Suite of software (Word, Outlook, and Excel), and pdfs.
Familiarity, and/or ability to gain proficiency, with accounting software.
Strong knowledge of accounting principles, concepts and processes.
Accurate data entry with the ability to type and use 10-key by touch.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; demonstrated understanding of correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Ability to work effectively within a team environment and to work proactively.
Strong time management skills and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment; ability to coordinate multiple tasks concurrently and meet deadlines.
Strong organizational skills, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Prior legal experience is helpful, but not required.

Responsibilities

Administers all aspects of client trust accounts in compliance with California State Bar requirements.
Record deposits, transfers, and disbursements with proper authorization.
Prepare trust checks, wire forms, and required bank documentation for new accounts.
Ensures proper handling of retainers and client overpayments.
Supports collections activities, including tracking payment arrangements and updating the collections database (ARCS).
Researches and resolves payment issues, misapplied cash, and unapplied balances.
Processes A/R write-offs in accordance with firm policy.
Maintains detailed payment tracking for complex billing arrangements.
Coordinates with billing to ensure proper application of payments and trust usage.
Processes vendor invoices from receipt through approval, coding, entry, and payment.
Facilitates weekly check runs, ACH payments, and wire transfers.
Handles daily and rush payment requests, ensuring proper approvals.
Coordinates invoice approvals and resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal stakeholders.
Maintains accurate vendor records, including tax documentation for 1099 reporting.
Reviews and processes employee expense reports for compliance and accuracy.
Initiates ACH reimbursements and coordinate payment authorizations.
Processes corporate account charges (e.g., travel, delivery) and allocates billable costs.
Performs cost recovery entries and reconcile vendor invoices.
Distributes monthly trust account reports to responsible attorneys.
Provides financial reports, audit support, and ad hoc analyses as requested.
Tracks retainer activity and follows up with attorneys as needed.
Maintains accurate electronic and physical files for all accounting transactions.
Ensures proper scanning and storage of supporting documentation.
Monitors stale invoices and outstanding checks, resolving as necessary.
Responds to inquiries from attorneys, staff, and vendors regarding payments, invoices, and account activity.
Reconciles vendor accounts and obtains corrections or credits when needed.
Manages petty cash disbursements and reconciliations.
Assists with collections processes in the absence of the Collections Coordinator.
Performs other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.
Strives to meet deadlines, follows firm policy and department protocols.
Maintains department customer service standards.
Assists with special projects as assigned.
Communicates with clients in a professional and service-oriented manner.
Works cooperatively with attorneys, secretaries and other departments, as necessary.