Associate Accountant

Under supervision of the Controller, the Associate Accountant is responsible for the day-to-day processing of accounts payable and payroll functions for the Zoo & Aquarium, including vendor payments, employee payroll, and maintaining accurate financial records. This role also assists with the overall processing, verifying, and balancing of cash, coins and checks from the Zoo & Aquarium’s revenue-generating departments and events. This position supports the Finance department by ensuring all transactions are processed in accordance with established accounting policies and procedures, with an emphasis on accuracy, timeliness, confidentiality, and strong internal controls.

• Accounts Payable (approx. 50%): Processes all accounts payable transactions, including reviewing, coding, and entering invoices into the accounting system; ensures proper approvals are obtained in accordance with internal controls; prepares and processes weekly check runs and electronic payments; reconciles vendor statements and resolves discrepancies; maintains vendor files and responds to vendor inquiries.
• Payroll Processing (approx. 20%): Administers payroll processing, including processing bi-weekly payroll through the company’s payroll/HR system; reviews employee timekeeping records and resolves discrepancies; maintains payroll records, deductions, and employee data; assists with payroll tax reporting and year-end processes (W-2s).
• Revenue Control Backup (approx. 10%): Verifies and handles large sums of currency and coins; reports revenue accurately in cashier balance sheets; enters and reviews daily revenue reports.
• Month-End Closing & Reconciliations (approx. 10%): Reconciles accounts payable and payroll-related general ledger accounts; assists with month-end closing entries and reporting; provides documentation and support for audits as needed.
• General Collaboration (approx. 5%): Works with managers and staff to resolve invoice and payroll-related issues and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Additional Projects (approx. 5%): Supports the finance department with additional projects, as requested.
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  * This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
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  * All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

• EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field required.
• EXPERIENCE: 1–2 years of accounts payable and/or payroll experience required; knowledge and experience with accounting standards and procedures; experience using SAGE Intacct financials and Paycor payroll preferred; strong analytical and problem-solving skills; strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong customer service skills, with ability to embrace a service-oriented approach and support others with professionalism.
• OTHER
  
  MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  
  Must have valid driver’s license; must be able to lift coin bags weighing up to 25 pounds; must be able to maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial and employee information; must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes, to backup for revenue control; must pass a background and drug screening.

Note:

This description reflects the core responsibilities and qualifications for the Associate Accountant role and is subject to change at the discretion of the organization.