FT Foundation Senior Accountant

Cochise College•Sierra Vista-Downtown Center, AZ

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Foundation Senior Accountant is responsible for performing professional-level accounting functions that provide accurate and timely financial information to the Foundation Board of Directors, including processing of charitable contributions, facilitating on-going communications with the Cochise College Controller and external entities, as required, coordinating foundation board meetings, and assisting with foundation functions. This position processes all donations using an electronic database, acknowledges donors, and generates reports; prepares and submits timely and accurate bank deposits and maintains associated support documentation. It also processes transactions into an electronic accounting system, analyzes and reconciles accounting data, researches and resolves discrepancies, prepares journal entries, and generates financial reports. The role identifies weaknesses in internal controls, assists in developing and implementing accounting policies and procedures, and aids in the preparation of annual financial statements, closing entries, and schedules. Furthermore, the Foundation Senior Accountant facilitates the annual audit, prepares materials for board meetings using a board portal, serves as a point of contact for board members, records meetings, prepares minutes, and coordinates meeting logistics. The position fosters relationships with donors, assists with foundation events, provides general support to college departments and board members engaged in fundraising, and performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting from an institution accredited by an institutional accrediting body of higher learning recognized by the US Department of Education
Three years related professional work experience
Knowledge of current technologies, to include Microsoft Office word processing and spreadsheet software, customer relationship management software, and computerized accounting systems
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, regulations and guidelines related to assigned work
Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and accounting statements general ledger and related accounting practices
Knowledge of and ability to complete Form 990 tax return
Knowledge of basic investment terms and practices
Skill in interpersonal communication and relationship building
Skill in accounting and financial report preparation
Skill in using complex functions in Microsoft Excel
Skill analyzing data, identifying problems and recommending solutions
Skill performing detailed numerical computation and preparing detailed reports on a timely basis
Ability to learn new technologies
Ability to use personal computers and standard office equipment
Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, and to relate to others in a professional, helpful manner
Ability to relate to a diverse population and to maintain composure when faced with difficult situations
Ability to organize, prioritize, and follow multiple tasks through to completion with an attention to detail
Ability to work independently while contributing to team environment
Ability to analyze problems, identify solutions and take appropriate action, resolve problems using independent judgment and decision-making processes
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, other department staff, students and the public
Ability to work accurately, efficiently, and effectively with all types of data
Ability to maintain accurate office procedures
Ability to work under pressure with frequent interruptions

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education or in the non-profit sector
QuickBooks knowledge to review prior year’s financial transactions is preferred

Responsibilities

Processes all donations using electronic database, acknowledges donors, and generates reports; prepares and submits timely and accurate bank deposits and maintains associated support documentation
Processes transactions into electronic accounting system and maintains associated support documention, providing financial information to the Cochise College Controller for review on a minimum of a monthly basis
Analyzes and reconciles accounting data for accuracy and appropriateness; researches and resolves discrepancies as required; prepares journal entries, prepares detail financial reports and schedules necessary to comply with Foundation policies, assists in responding to questions about financial transactions as needed
Identifies weaknesses in internal controls and safeguards assets and confidential financial data
Assists in the development and implementation of accounting policies and procedures that support transparent financial management practices
Assists in the preparation annual financial statements; prepares closing entries and schedules; facilitates the annual audit by providing the auditors transaction explanations and schedules; facilitates the Form 990 to completion
Prepares materials for Cochise College Foundation board of directors and committee meetings, in coordination with the Executive Director, using a board portal; serves as a point of contact for board members; records meetings and prepares minutes for board approval; coordinates meeting logistics as needed
Fosters relationships with donors and prospective donors through quality, timely interactions at all levels; operates in an environment that requires a high degree of trust and confidentiality
Assists with an array of activities related to foundation events, such as space reservations, registration, seating arrangements, meal selection, and follow-up; collaborates with supervisor on volunteer recruitment and training
Provides general support to college departments and board members engaged in fundraising activities
Performs other related duties as assigned