Job Title: Mission Financial Assistant
Reports to: Director of Finance and Stewardship of the Sierra Pacific Synod
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Salary Range: $16.50 - $20.00 / hour
Travel Required: No Travel Required
Position Type: 10 - 15 hours/week (limited term position for 6 months)
POSITION SUMMARY
The position is part of a team that helps to maintain the financial health of Sierra Pacific Synod and makes sure resources are utilized to the benefit of the overall mission, ministry, and goals of the synod. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Stewardship, the Mission Financial Assistant will monitor, record, and support financial transactions related to the ongoing support for several properties/congregations/specified ministry activities that are administered by the synod. The Mission Financial Assistant is responsible for, but not limited to, receiving and processing checks, invoices, and payments; calling for and organizing bids for various property related tasks; maintaining, producing, and distribution of weekly, monthly, and annual reports. May need to drive to properties to review issues reported and/or work performed.
The ideal candidate should have an interest in the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Responsibilities within the office may be added to this position depending on business needs.
Must be reliable, punctual, organized, and have demonstrated ability to juggle multiple priorities in a busy office. Must have knowledge of accounting (preferred, but not required, in a faith-based non-profit setting). Possession of excellent interpersonal skills and experience with financial software databases, Zoom, Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook are required. The Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (SPSELCA) is comprised of approximately 180 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) congregations and mission congregations located in northern California and northern Nevada. The Synod is supported by an elected Bishop and synod staff.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Update financial databases and spreadsheets
Coordinates and drafts journal entries
Prepares and processes payments
Process invoices and follow up with clients, suppliers and partners as needed
Develops and maintains financial procedures and ensures compliance with applicable GAAP/GASB procedures
Assist in maintaining database systems used for tracking financial transactions and information
Assist in developing/managing the organization’s physical property asset files and invoices related to expenditures associated with synod properties and other assets
Assist in maintaining an inventory of synod property and equipment and a record of purchases of major assets (property and equipment)
Assist in maintaining insurance policies for synod business, assets, and other properties as required
Provide administrative support during budget preparation
Participate in and provide support during annual audits
Develops successful and trusting relationships with staff and members of the Synod Council and Executive Committees and sustain an environment that supports these relationships
Participates in staff meetings and retreats
At the request of the Bishop may serve as a staff representative for job related committees.
Duties may include:
Assist in completing monthly payroll and keep organized records
Assist in preparing balance sheets
Assist in creating general financial reports
Record accounts payable and accounts receivable
Grant Writing and other stewardship activities to raise funds
QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Minimum of a certificate or bachelor’s degree with a focus in Bookkeeping, Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
At least three to seven years of overall professional financial related experience.
The ideal candidate has had experience and responsibility for the quality and content of financial data, reporting and audit assistance. May have worked for/with a faith-based non-profit or a non-profit organization.
Ability to effectively translate financial concepts to those who do not necessarily have financial backgrounds.
Has knowledge of record keeping/accounting, systems analysis, and analysis of policies and procedures.
Commitment to maximize individual and organization goals and best practices across the organization.
A successful track record in setting priorities; keen analytic, organization and problem-solving skills which support and enable sound decision making by management.
Excellent communication and relationship building skills with an ability to prioritize, negotiate, and work with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
A multitasker with the ability to wear many hats in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work extra hours, travel, participate in meetings, including overnight meetings, anywhere within the synod’s territory.
Possesses a valid California driver’s license.
Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and dedication to the mission.
Ability to keep confidentiality -- contribution and other personal information is confidential
PREFERRED SKILLS
Work experience as an account clerk, entry level accountant, or similar role
Deep knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping procedures
Advanced MS Excel skills (creating spreadsheets and using financial functions)
Familiarity with accounting software (e.g. QuickBooks or other similar software)
Organizational and time-management skills
Attention to detail, with an ability to spot numerical errors
Certificate or degree in Bookkeeping, Accounting, or other closely related field
Sierra Pacific Synod is an equal opportunity employer. All applications will be accepted and reviewed. (Applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and life experiences are encourage to apply)
The successful applicant must submit to a background check before employment can be finalized.
To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to hr@spselca.org. Priority screening for this position will begin February 1, 2022.