Staff Accountant

Norman Public Schools
Staff Accountant Job Description
Job Title: Staff Accountant
Credentials: None required for this position.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
Training or experience required: Minimum of 2 years of accounting experience, with a focus on account reconciliations, federal program compliance and general journal entries. Experience in a public accounting or educational environment is a plus.
Site: Administrative Services Center - Payroll and Finance
Reports to: Director of Finance
Contract: 240 days
Salary Schedule: Off Scale
FLSA Classification: Non-exempt
Essential Job Functions:

1. Financial Record Keeping:
   • Prepare, review, and reconcile general ledger entries and transactions.
   • Maintain accurate records of financial transactions, including federal programs and accounts receivable.
2. Account Reconciliations:
   • Perform regular account reconciliations to ensure accuracy and completeness of financial records.
     • Additionally, reconciliation and preparation of monthly claims for Child Nutrition.
   • Investigate and resolve discrepancies between ledger accounts and supporting documentation.
   • Ensure that all reconciliations are completed in a timely manner and in compliance with district policies.
3. Financial Reporting:
   • Assist in the preparation of monthly and annual financial reports.
   • Generate and analyze financial statements, balance sheets, and income statements to support financial decision-making.
4. Budget Monitoring:
   • Track and monitor budgetary allocations and expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budgets.
   • Assist in preparing budgetary reports and projections.
5. Construction Project Accounting Management:
   • Oversee the financial aspects of construction projects, including budgeting, cost tracking, and financial reporting.
   • Ensure accurate recording of construction expenses and revenues in alignment with project budgets.
   • Coordinate with project managers to review and approve invoices, change orders, and payments related to construction projects.
   • Monitor project cash flows and ensure timely and accurate reporting of project financial status.
6. Timekeeping Management:
   • Oversee and manage timekeeping systems for the district, ensuring accurate recording of employee hours and attendance.
   • Review and approve timecards, including any adjustments or corrections needed.
   • Coordinate with payroll to ensure accurate processing of employee hours, overtime, and leave balances.
   • Assist with timekeeping-related inquiries and resolve discrepancies.
7. Federal Program Compliance:
   • Ensure adherence to federal program regulations and guidelines, including grant management and reporting requirements.
   • Monitor and track expenditures related to federal programs to ensure compliance with funding restrictions.
   • Assist in preparing reports and documentation for federal program audits and reviews.
   • Coordinate with program managers to ensure proper use of federal funds and compliance with grant conditions.
8. Compliance and Auditing:
   • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as district policies and procedures.
   • Assist with internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and explanations.
9. Financial Analysis:
   • Conduct financial analysis to identify trends, variances, and areas for improvement.
   • Provide recommendations based on financial data to support decision-making.
10. Administrative Support:
    • Provide administrative support to the finance department as needed.
    • Assist with special projects and other duties as assigned.

 
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Proficiency in accounting ERP software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of governmental accounting standards and federal program compliance is preferred.
• Certifications: CPA or similar certification is a plus but not required.

 
Work Environment:

• Physical Demands: This position may require occasional lifting of files and materials.
• Work Hours: Standard work hours with occasional need for extended hours during peak periods or deadlines.
• Travel: Minimal travel required; primarily within the school district.