Staff Accountant

Description

COMPANY INFORMATION

The Living Desert is a California non-profit 501c3 public benefit corporation located in Palm Desert, CA. Our mission is to preserve part of the Colorado desert and foster appreciation for desert plants and animals. Within our mission we support other countries’ organizations. We do this financially and by sending conservation educators to work with them. We are a member of the Associations of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Compensation and Benefits:

• $58,240-$68,640 (28/hr-33/hr.) Onsite hourly position in Palm Desert, CA.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance
• 401(k) and other additional benefits
• Paid Time Off, Sick Time, Bereavement and Jury Duty Time

POSITION SUMMARY

The Staff Accountant will assist with the day-to-day accounting operations of The Living Desert. This position will oversee the General Ledger, assist with tax and regulatory filings, the annual financial audit and ensure a timely and accurate monthly accounting close. This includes the regular review and monthly reconciliation of various balance sheet and income statement accounts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and post journal entries to the general ledger, including cash receipts, adjustments, and accruals. 
• Prepare and maintain monthly reconciliations of various balance sheet and income statement accounts included in the monthly closing cycle. This includes bank account and project reconciliations.
• Perform regular review of General ledger accounts and projects to ensure accurate and timely posting of revenue and expenses. Includes creation and maintaining schedules for various accounts and projects.
• Ensure timely and accurate filing and payment of monthly sales and use taxes.
• Perform Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable and Cash Management activities as necessary.
• Process Bi-Weekly Payroll as needed. (This position is a back up to the primary payroll processor.)
• Manage fixed asset details, capitalization, disposal, and depreciation.
• Assists with monthly financial reporting and statement preparation as necessary.
• Assist with annual financial audit and act as liaison to independent audit firm to ensure audit process runs smoothly.
• Assist with the administration of the financial systems. Including user management and systems configuration.
• Assist in developing and implementing internal financial controls and procedures.
• Ensures confidentiality and professionalism are maintained when dealing with sensitive business and personnel information.
• Contributes to desert conservation through reduction of waste, water and energy use, and inspiring guests and team members to take conservation actions.
• Assist with ad hoc reporting and accounting projects as assigned.

Requirements

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• 4 years’ experience in progressive accounting roles required.
• Working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Experience with non-profit accounting including familiarity of form 990 preparation and management of restricted funds is preferred.
• Solid experience in accounting activities concerning Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Cash Management, Payroll and Fixed Assets.
• Experience working with ERP systems, including accounting and payroll software preferred. 
• High proficiency using Microsoft Office, with excellent skills in Excel.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A self-starter who can work independently and with a team.
• High level of integrity and dependability.
• Able to work flexible hours as necessary to meet deadlines.

CONDITIONS OF WORK

Physical Effort: This is largely a sedentary role and primarily involves sitting at a computer station for extended periods; standing, walking, bending, twisting, climbing, crawling, kneeling, reaching motions. This position may involve some lifting, carrying, moving, pushing, and/or pulling of objects/materials of light weight (15 – 20 pounds). 

Discomfort/Risks: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome due to extensive computer work

Holiday/Evening Work: Weekend and holiday work required as needed to meet deadlines. Some evenings may be required during special events.

Travel: Conference and workshop attendance available depending on budgetary demands

Equipment Used: Computer, computer printer, copier/fax machine, two-way radio, and golf ca