TITLE: Senior Accounting Disbursement Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Finance Office
REPORTS TO: Finance Director
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Accounting Disbursement Specialist is responsible for providing high-quality accounting and analytical support, ensuring the accuracy of the Town’s financial records, and meeting the timely close for month-end, quarter-end, and year-end processes. This position works closely with the Chief Financial Officer, finance department staff, and other Town personnel, and will interact with customers, vendors, and bank representatives. Key responsibilities include processing accounts payable, maintaining financial records, and supporting the town's financial operations.
This role requires a highly organized individual with the ability to multitask, work independently, and apply a thorough understanding of GAAP accounting principles. The Senior Accounting Disbursement Specialist will assist in budget preparation, ensure compliance with municipal regulations, and support informed financial decision-making. Additionally, the position serves as a backup to key finance personnel, ensuring continuity of financial processes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Accounts Payable & Vendor Management:
- Processes town accounts payables, including reviewing invoices for proper account coding and authorization. Inputs invoicing into accounting software and prepares check runs.
- Maintains an up-to-date W-9 file for all vendors in accordance with State Library Regulations.
- Prepares vendor 1099 forms at year-end and files necessary information with state and federal agencies.
Capital & Cash Flow Management:
- Follows the capital asset threshold for purchases and maintains fixed asset schedules and database.
- Submits Positive Pay files to financial institutions and decisions exceptions.
- Serves as backup to the Finance Director in maintaining proper cash flow by submitting transfer requests to the Town Treasurer.
Financial Reporting:
- Provides expenditure analysis.
- Assists with month-end close and report generation for various departments.
- Assists with the preparation of all documents for the annual audit.
- Assists with the development of the annual budget.
- Maintains detailed disbursement records for all grants to assist the grant coordinator with report submissions.
Administrative Support:
- Provides administrative assistance to the Public Works Department.
- Interfaces with the Board of Finance as needed regarding the budget and at other times of the year when requested by the Finance Director.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
- Extensive experience in accounts payable and municipal financial operations.
- Ability to work independently, follow procedures, and meet deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees and the public.
- Commitment to knowledge sharing and training within the finance department to enhance operational efficiency.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, with strong Excel skills.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance with at least two (2) years of municipal accounting experience, or
Associate’s degree in accounting or finance with at least five (5) years of experience, including a minimum of two (2) years in municipal, nonprofit, or grant accounting.
BENEFITS
- Comprehensive health and dental insurance
- HSA contribution
- Life Insurance
- Short-term disability insurance
- Retirement savings plan
- Paid time off and holidays
Please email your resume to Jennifer Cafasso at jcafasso@bethany-ct.com.