Accounting Specialist (7417)

Lutheran Services Florida • Sarasota, FL

14d

About The Position

The Accounting Specialist provides direct financial client services for all clients of the program. The role manages and documents client assets and financial affairs, prepares financial records and court-related reports, coordinates benefit applications and account administration, and supports the Program Manager and Client Accounting team. The position handles sensitive and confidential information, works with limited supervision and on a highly independent basis, and is responsible for protecting and preserving clients’ assets under the prudent person rule. The role also requires sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs of the people served.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• At least two years of experience in banking or bookkeeping.
• Bookkeeping or accounting skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and proficiency with general office machines.
• Proficiency with Excel spreadsheets.
• Self-starter able to work with minimal supervision and maintain a pleasant, friendly demeanor.
• Creativity in identifying time-saving methods and improving organizational operations.
• Must meet any requirements imposed by law or local court ruling.
• Sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs of the population served.
• Ability to work independently and cooperate effectively with staff and outside contacts.
• Ability to communicate confidential or sensitive information outside the agency as required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare reports detailing client asset holdings for the Program Manager, Client Accounting staff, local program staff, court-related activities, and auditor review.
• Prepare forms and applications to open guardianship, QIT, burial, and other accounts.
• Coordinate registration and management of client brokerage accounts and other investments, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities, and life insurance.
• Advocate on behalf of clients and establish and maintain community relationships with attorneys, appraisers, realtors, auto personnel, insurance providers, and other vendors.
• Maintain positive working relationships with community members and LSF staff; represent the agency on local guardianship-related committees, groups, and organizations.
• Assist with screening referrals alongside the CM Supervisor and Program Director.
• Review and process payment of client invoices.
• Provide backup for daily bank deposits, reconciliation of transaction statements, and preparation and maintenance of clients’ monthly income reports.
• Record time for the client billing system and maintain appropriate case notes.
• Coordinate with case managers on initial and ongoing eligibility for benefit programs, including Medicare, Medicare D, Social Security, veterans’ benefits, waiver programs, and Medicaid.
• Prepare and maintain listings of client real estate, taxes, listings, and insurance status.
• Marshal, investigate, and track new clients’ liquid assets, including bank accounts and securities.
• Marshal client real estate, vehicles, jewelry, artwork, and other tangible property; obtain appraisals and coordinate management or sale with the Director, attorney, and court.
• Coordinate lawn care, pool service, repairs, auto repairs, and ongoing insurance for client assets.
• Prepare paperwork to redirect client income, initiate direct deposits, and complete client representative payee reports.
• Maintain recurring pay records for clients.
• Prepare initial inventories and assist with annual and final accountings filed with the court.
• Conduct periodic asset reviews; prepare audit, program, client accounting, and attorney statistics; and audit and compile client asset, income, and payable reports.
• Monitor and maintain listings of client belongings kept in storage units, safes, or other storage areas.
• Attend in-service and mandatory training sessions.
• Document all client-related activity and maintain accurate client logs and case notes for each ward.
• Assist with answering phones as needed.
• Manage each ward’s assets and financial affairs under the prudent person rule, with the primary objective of protecting and preserving assets.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the program administrator.
• Provide administrative support to the Program Manager, contribute as a team player, maintain organized and accurate program files, act professionally, and adhere to LSF personnel policies and procedures.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 24/7 telehealth access to doctors.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employer-paid life insurance equal to one times salary.
• 13 paid holidays and one floating holiday.
• Paid time off starting at 16 working days per year; Head Start employees may have a different paid time off and holiday schedule.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% discretionary employer match or 3% student loan repayment reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED