Job Description
Job DescriptionWe are looking for an accomplished Senior Accountant to support the financial operations of a school-based business office in Pasadena, California. This contract position with potential for a permanent role is ideal for someone who combines strong technical accounting expertise with a thoughtful, service-oriented approach to partnering with leadership and administrative teams. The person in this role will help keep financial records accurate, contribute to reporting and close activities, and promote sound accounting practices across the organization.
Responsibilities:
• Record and review journal entries, reconcile balance sheet accounts, and maintain the accuracy of general ledger activity.
• Contribute to monthly, quarterly, and annual closing cycles by preparing schedules, validating transactions, and resolving discrepancies on time.
• Produce financial statements and management reports that support informed decision-making and provide clear visibility into operating results.
• Track daily cash activity and complete bank reconciliations to ensure balances are properly supported.
• Administer fixed asset accounting, including asset roll-forwards and depreciation calculations.
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and variance reviews by compiling financial data and highlighting notable trends.
• Evaluate accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll-related entries for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with established procedures.
• Manage accounting related to restricted funds, grants, tuition, and other designated revenue sources as applicable.
• Recommend and implement improvements that strengthen accounting workflows, documentation, and internal controls.
• Partner with finance leadership on audit preparation, special analyses, and ad hoc reporting requests.• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within education, nonprofit, public sector, or similarly structured organizations.
• Demonstrated expertise in month-end close, general ledger accounting, journal entries, and account reconciliations.
• Hands-on experience preparing bank reconciliations, financial reports, and audit support documentation.
• Working knowledge of internal controls, compliance expectations, and standard accounting practices.
• Proficiency with accounting systems and strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical ability, careful attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative and detail-focused approach to cross-functional work.