Worcester Academy is a leading independent school known for its academic excellence, inclusive community, and commitment to preparing students for a bright future. Located in the heart of Worcester, MA, the Academy serves students from grades 6-12 and provides a collaborative, dynamic environment for both staff and students. We are seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Senior Accountant to join our finance team and contribute to the continued success and growth of the Academy. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position.
Position Overview:
The Senior Accountant will play a critical role in maintaining the financial health of Worcester Academy by overseeing key accounting functions, including accounts payable, bank reconciliations, prepaid expenses, accruals, and related financial tasks. The ideal candidate will have extensive accounting experience, a solid understanding of financial regulations, and a passion for supporting the financial operations of a nonprofit educational institution.
Key Responsibilities:
Accounts Payable Management:
Process and record all accounts payable transactions in an accurate and timely manner.
Review, approve, and verify invoices and payment requests for proper documentation and compliance with Academy policies.
Ensure payments are made in a timely manner, including processing checks, ACH, and wire transfers.
Manage vendor relationships and respond to inquiries as needed.
Assist in maintaining vendor files and ensuring tax compliance (e.g., 1099 filings).
Implement a paperless AP process: Transition accounts payable to a fully electronic system, including invoice approvals, payment processing, and document storage, to increase efficiency and reduce reliance on paper.
Lead the digitization efforts for AP documentation and train staff on using the paperless system effectively.
Bank Reconciliations:
Perform monthly bank reconciliations for all accounts to ensure accurate recording of transactions.
Investigate and resolve discrepancies between bank statements and financial records.
Prepare and present monthly reconciliation reports to management.
Prepaid Expenses and Accruals:
Review and manage prepaid expenses, ensuring proper recording and amortization in accordance with GAAP.
Process monthly journal entries for accrued expenses, ensuring that all expenses are recorded in the correct period.
Monitor and track outstanding accruals, ensuring accurate reporting and reconciliation at month-end and year-end.
Assist in reconciling prepaid accounts and accruals to ensure alignment with the general ledger.
General Accounting Support:
Assist in the preparation of monthly and year-end financial reports, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
Ensure accurate recording of financial transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Help prepare schedules for the annual audit and provide necessary documentation to external auditors.
Process Improvement:
Identify opportunities for streamlining accounting processes and improving efficiency within the finance department.
Collaborate with the CFO and other team members on system upgrades, policy development, and best practices for financial operations.
Additional Responsibilities:
Maintain confidential financial records and adhere to all data protection regulations.
Assist with other accounting-related tasks and special projects as needed.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of accounting experience, with a focus on accounts payable, bank reconciliations, prepaid expenses, accruals, and general ledger maintenance.
Experience in nonprofit or educational sector accounting is a plus.
Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Blackbaud Financial Edge, or similar) and Microsoft Excel.
Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with various stakeholders.
High degree of integrity and professionalism.
Preferred Qualifications:
CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
Experience with nonprofit fund accounting.
Familiarity with tax regulations for nonprofit organizations.
Work Environment:
This is an in-person position based at Worcester Academy. The Senior Accountant will work closely with the CFO, the rest of the finance team, and other departments across the Academy.
Compensation and Benefits:
Worcester Academy offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that fosters growth and career advancement.
Worcester Academy exists to instill in its students the desire to learn throughout life, to engage passionately with the world around them, and to be honorable persons of strong and resourceful character. We are a community—curious, thoughtful, generous, and thriving in our diversity. We embrace each of our core values as essential to the mission of Worcester Academy and as testimony of our beliefs and commitments.
