MCS Accounting Specialist

About the position

The Accounting Specialist supports the centralized financial operations of Maryville City Schools by maintaining accurate accounting records, processing transactions across multiple funds, reconciling accounts, and ensuring compliance with district, state, and federal regulations. This position assists in the administration of school and district funds, supports internal and external audits, prepares financial documentation and reports, and collaborates with administrators and staff to promote sound financial practices. The Accounting Specialist reports to the Finance Director.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional customer service to staff, administration, vendors, auditors, and community stakeholders
• Communicate procedural requirements to ensure financial transactions comply with district policy and state and federal regulations.
• Oversee and monitor financial records including purchase orders, invoices, account balances, shipment verification, and supporting documentation.
• Review and oversee vendor statements and payments to ensure timely and accurate disbursement of funds.
• Lead district-wide accounts payable and receivable processes.
• Prepare financial documentation including voucher ratification reports, budget transfers, transmittals, journal entries, and 1099 reporting.
• Reconcile bank accounts, general ledger accounts, and subsidiary ledgers monthly.
• Assist in preparation for internal and external audits, including gathering documentation and responding to auditor inquiries.
• Research and resolve discrepancies in financial documentation prior to processing.
• Compile financial data including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipts, deposits, and fund balances.
• Receive, deposit, and record payments from various sources to ensure prompt and accurate processing.
• Establish and maintain vendor files, including W-9 collection and annual 1099 processing.
• Support budget monitoring by reviewing expenditures and assisting with account status reporting.
• Participate in year-end closing processes and financial reporting activities.
• Participate in professional development opportunities (e.g., TASBO conferences, software working groups, state finance workshops, etc.) to maintain current knowledge of school finance regulations and best practices.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for school bookkeepers, providing ongoing support, training, and direction in accounting procedures, financial software systems, internal controls, reporting requirements, and district, state, and federal compliance matters.
• Promote consistency and standardization of financial procedures across all schools to ensure alignment with district policies and regulatory guidelines.
• Conduct periodic reviews of school financial records and processes to verify accuracy, identify discrepancies, reinforce internal controls, and ensure compliance with accounting practices.
• Maintain organized financial files and records in accordance with administrative guidelines, records retention requirements, and legal standards.
• Sustain and support financial databases and platforms including Skyward, School Funds Online, Newton, and Franklin.
• Generate reports for district leadership, the Board of Education, state agencies, and auditors as requested.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Requirements

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in accounting or governmental finance, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and analytical skills required.
• Position requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, accuracy, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced central office environment.
• The successful applicant must demonstrate the ability to meet strict deadlines and exercise sound judgment in financial matters.
• Knowledge of governmental accounting principles and internal control practices
• Knowledge of administrative office procedures and financial recordkeeping systems
• Strong organizational, technological, analytical, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to interpret and apply district policies, state regulations, and federal guidelines
• Strong mathematical skills, including use of fractions, percentages, and ratios
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet established deadlines
• Ability to prepare, analyze, and maintain accurate financial records and reports
• Flexibility and professionalism when working with diverse stakeholders.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, and experience with financial database systems (e.g., Skyward and other school finance software) preferred
• Understanding of public school finance procedures and compliance requirements preferred
• Experience in governmental or school finance is preferred
• Experience in accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger reconciliation, and audit support strongly preferred.
• Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or related fields preferred; equivalent professional experience may be considered