Accounting Technician

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Senior Accountant, the Accounting Technician supports day-to-day financial operations by performing core accounting and clerical functions that help maintain accurate financial records and ensure the timely processing of transactions. Responsibilities typically include managing accounts payable and accounts receivable, processing invoices and payments, reconciling bank accounts, maintaining financial records, preparing deposits, assisting with payroll and budgeting, and supporting month-end and year-end accounting processes. The role also involves verifying transaction accuracy, responding to vendor or customer inquiries, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and accounting procedures.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process accounts payable transactions, including reviewing invoices, matching purchase orders, and preparing payments.
• Maintain accounts receivable records and monitor incoming payments and outstanding balances.
• Prepare and process deposits, checks, electronic payments, and related banking transactions.
• Reconcile bank statements and financial accounts to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Enter, update, and maintain financial data in accounting systems and spreadsheets.
• Assist with payroll processing and related recordkeeping, as assigned.
• Verify the accuracy of financial documents and ensure compliance with accounting procedures and internal controls.
• Respond to inquiries from vendors, customers, staff, and departments regarding financial transactions.
• Prepare routine financial reports, summaries, and supporting documentation.
• Maintain organized accounting files and records in accordance with retention requirements.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities and audit preparation.
• Monitor expenditures and help identify discrepancies or errors for correction.
• Support budgeting and purchasing processes as needed.
• Perform general clerical and administrative duties related to accounting operations.
• Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Basic accounting principles, practices, and procedures.
• Accounts payable, accounts receivable, and banking processes.
• Financial recordkeeping and reconciliation methods.
• Office practices, procedures, and standard business communications.
• Applicable accounting software, spreadsheets, and financial systems.
• Data entry procedures and records management practices.
• Internal controls and confidentiality requirements related to financial information.
• Accurately processing financial transactions and maintaining detailed records.
• Using accounting software, spreadsheets, and standard office technology.
• Performing mathematical calculations with speed and accuracy.
• Reconciling accounts and identifying discrepancies.
• Organizing and prioritizing multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Preparing reports and maintaining documentation.
• Providing effective customer service and professional communication.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial and personnel information.
• Interpret and apply accounting procedures, policies, and regulations.
• Work independently with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Analyze financial information and resolve routine issues.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, vendors, and the public.
• Communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
• Adapt to changing priorities and workload demands.
• Follow oral and written instructions and meet established timelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to remain seated for extended periods; use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, calculator, and other standard office equipment; grasp, handle, and feel objects; and communicate effectively through speaking and hearing. The employee may occasionally be required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required for this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

 WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• This position is primarily performed in a standard office environment with moderate noise levels and frequent use of computers, telephones, and other office equipment. The employee may experience interruptions and multiple demands throughout the workday and may occasionally interact with staff, vendors, and the public. Minimal travel between district or office locations may be required.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, as determined by Human Resources, required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of related accounting, bookkeeping, or financial office experience required.
• Three (3) or more years of progressively responsible accounting or financial support experience preferred.

BENEFIT INFORMATION

St. Louis Park Schools provides a comprehensive benefits package for employees working 20 or more hours per week. Key benefits include:

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for medical and dependent care expenses
• Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance

The cost of benefits varies based on the employee group and full-time equivalent (FTE) status. For detailed information, including specific benefits and associated costs, please refer to the applicable group or bargaining unit contract Employment Contracts.