Accounting Associate

Vancouver Aquarium, one of the many properties owned by Herschend Family Entertainment, prides itself on working towards bringing families closer together and to creating memories worth repeating.   Our Core Values – greatly exceeding guest expectations, serving others, creating emotional connections, constantly improving – give us purpose and guidance.      

The Vancouver Aquarium’s Finance Department has an exciting employment opportunity for an Accounting Associate position. As our Finance department is high volume and fast paced, we are seeking a detail-oriented individual who works well under pressure and can manage competing deadlines.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Accounting Associate plays an important role in maintaining the accuracy, integrity, and efficiency of the Aquarium's day-to-day accounting operations while delivering high-quality service to both internal and external stakeholders. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Finance, the role has primary responsibility for supporting the Accounts Payable function while also assisting with revenue accounting, reconciliations and financial reporting activities. Working closely with the accounting team, the Accounting Associate helps ensure timely transaction processing, strong internal controls, and accurate financial records across the Vancouver Aquarium.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Performs Accounts Payable functions by:

• Processing supplier invoices accurately and in a timely manner within the accounting system.
• Reviewing invoices for completeness and ensuring appropriate coding and approvals are obtained in accordance with established policies.
• Maintaining accurate supplier records, including vendor onboarding, profile updates and verification processes as required.
• Reviewing vendor statements and investigating outstanding balances and discrepancies.
• Assisting with payment preparation and processing while ensuring payment deadlines are met.
• Responding to routine vendor and internal department inquiries regarding invoices, payments, and account balances.
• Assisting with month-end Accounts Payable procedures, including accrual support and reconciliation activities.
• Supporting the Accounts Payable Accountant with continuous process improvements and other accounting projects as required.

Supports daily revenue accounting and reporting by:

• Preparing and distributing the daily revenue summary report, including attendance, admissions, retail, food and beverage, and on-grounds revenue information.
• Monitoring daily revenue activity and investigating discrepancies to ensure the completeness and accuracy of financial information.
• Updating recurring and ad hoc revenue reports to support operational and management reporting requirements.
• Assisting with period-end revenue reporting and other accounting activities as required.

Maintains accurate payment processing by:

• Recording cheques and credit card deposits into the financial system using deposit listings and supporting documentation provided by the Receivables Accountant.
• Supporting the administration of cashless payment solutions, including maintaining kiosk payment card inventory and assisting with related operational activities.

Supports financial controls and operational processes by:

• Emptying donation boxes, penny presses, lockers, and other secured cash collection points in accordance with established internal control procedures and dual-custody requirements.
• Printing and maintaining voucher inventory and supporting related operational requirements.
• Following established accounting policies, standard operating procedures, and internal controls to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information.
• Identifying opportunities to improve finance processes, reporting, and operational efficiencies.
• Providing general administrative support to the Finance Department and participating in special projects and other duties as assigned.

Provides administrative support to Accounting team by:

• Distributing employee reimbursement cheques.
• Coordinating year-end boxes to offsite storage.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Diploma or certificate in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline; equivalent education and experience will be considered.
• Previous experience in an accounting, finance, bookkeeping, or administrative environment is considered an asset. Recent graduates with relevant education and a strong willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.
• Experience performing reconciliations, payment processing, or Accounts Payable/Accounts Receivable activities is considered an asset.
• Experience working with accounting software and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Experience with ERP and Point-of-Sale systems is considered an asset.

Candidates without some of the required qualifications are encouraged to apply. Just mention which of the requirements you don’t have in your cover letter and why you are still the right candidate for the position.

Technical Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive financial information.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of accuracy and quality.
• Ability to work in high pressure situations in a calm and organized manner.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to customer service and continuous improvement
• Active demonstration of the company’s values and mission.

Working Conditions:

• The incumbent will work in a shared office environment with the usual ergonomic risks.
• Regular office hours with some overtime as required.

SALARY RANGE:  $23 to $30 PER HOUR