Accounting Specialist

An Accounting Specialist is responsible for managing a church's financial records, including recording all income (donations), expenses, and assets, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and tax regulations, preparing financial statements, analyzing financial data, and providing strategic financial planning insights to church leadership, often with a focus on maintaining accurate records and supporting the church's mission through responsible financial management.

Key responsibilities:

Recording transactions: Accurately recording all financial transactions including donations, offerings, expenses, and payroll.

Accounts payable and receivable: Managing accounts payable (bills to be paid) and accounts receivable (monies owed to the church).

Bank reconciliation: Reconciling bank statements with church records to ensure accuracy.

Financial reporting: Preparing regular financial reports including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.

Budgeting: Assisting in creating and monitoring the church budget.

Tax compliance: Ensuring the church complies with all relevant tax regulations and filing requirements.

Donor management: Processing donations and providing donor receipts.

Internal controls: Implementing and maintaining internal financial controls to prevent fraud and errors.

Financial analysis: Analyzing financial data to identify trends and provide recommendations to church leadership. Key skills:

Strong accounting knowledge and understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)

Proficiency in accounting software

Excellent organizational and detail-oriented skills

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Strong communication skills to collaborate with church leadership and staff

Understanding of non-profit accounting practices