JOB ANNOUNCEMENT – JUNIOR ACCOUNTANT
For more than 40 years LAF has provided people living in poverty in metropolitan Chicago with
comprehensive free legal services to resolve non-criminal issues. Each year LAF’s more than 80
full-time attorneys and staff help resolve civil legal problems, including domestic violence, consumer
fraud, and unfair evictions. Their work impacts about 55,000 people each year.
JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direct supervision of the Chief Financial Officer, the Junior Accountant will be responsible for
Payroll administration and certain accounts payable activity. The Junior Accountant will also assist in
other financial activities, including account analysis, cash receipts and reconciliation, journal entry
preparation and participation in the month-end accounting close. Additional reporting and analysis
will also be assigned to this person, as appropriate.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Processing payroll; preparing all documentation for payroll withholding, e.g., taxes, pension, tax
deferred annuity, court ordered judgments, etc. Processing and reconciling year-end W-2 and 1099
forms. Maintaining time register files, e.g., vacation, sick leave and sick leave bank. Entering all
absences into attendance software. Answering questions concerning balances. Preparing annual
vacation accrual work sheet for audit.
Recording incoming checks in cash receipts log on a daily basis. Reconciling cash log with cash
deposits. Maintaining cash receipts log. Preparing dental plan checks for signature, distributing and
mailing.
Compiles statistical and payroll data from a variety of sources (e.g. timesheets/payroll, salary
adjustments, longevity pay, union dues, benefits, leave balances, tax deposits, etc.) for the purpose
of providing summaries to other personnel and/or ensuring compliance with established guidelines.
Establishing and maintaining account for each Client Trust Fund escrow amount. Preparing all
documentation for receipts and disbursements. On a monthly basis, reconciling client trust fund to
general ledger. Preparing data entry of cash receipts.
Maintaining proficiency with all equipment, computer hardware and software necessary to perform
the duties of position. Review and summarize expenses for petty cash accounts.
Informs other staff and/or outside parties regarding procedural requirements for the purpose of
processing transactions.
Monitors assigned payroll activities and/or program components (e.g. County, State, and Federal
agencies, tax laws, FMLA, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring compliance with established financial,
legal and/or administrative requirements.
Assists in performing general ledger accounting functions as needed/as assigned for the purpose of
ensuring that department functions are completed in an accurate and timely manner (e.g. general
ledger entries, maintenance of records and files, and reconciling accounts).
Analyzes information and options by developing spreadsheet reports; verifying information. Develops
and implements accounting procedures by analyzing current procedures; recommending changes.
Answers accounting and financial questions by researching and interpreting data.
Performing such other duties as are reasonably related to the function of the Payroll/Accounting
Technician and as may be assigned from time to time by the CFO.
QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of finance and accounting
including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
Ability to prioritize, meet deadlines and process
transactions accurately. Must be organized, flexible and able to multi-task to achieve objectives.
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively at all levels within the organization.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, planning, and project management skills; detail oriented.
Ability to self-motivate, work in teams, and be flexible within a fast-paced and changing environment.
Ability to handle confidential information in a professional manner. Proficient in MS Office products;
solid knowledge of Word and Excel is required.
Education and Experience Requirements at this level Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related
discipline required. At least two (2) years work experience in Accounting. General ledger account
knowledge, financial analysis, month-end close and reconciliation experience. Prior experience
working with a non-profit organization is a plus, as is prior system experience with Blackbaud FE and
Paylocity.
To apply:
Send cover letter, resume and the names and contact information for
two professional references, by e-mail to: resume@lafchicago.org. Put the phrase
“Accounting Assistant” in the subject line of the e-mail. No phone calls, please.
The deadline for applications is February 28, 2014. The position will remain open until
filled.
Salary:
Dependent on qualifications and experience level.
LAF offers generous fringe benefits.
LAF IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES
NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY