Accounting Officer

Established in 1976 the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) is a First Nation governed post-secondary institution. Recognized under provincial legislation, the Institute has been conferred authority to grant certificates and diplomas. SIIT welcomes over 2400 students into our urban and community programs annually as well as serving over 6000 clients through our nine Career Centres across the province. The Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies is playing a significant role in Saskatchewan's economic future. You can contribute to that success while building your career.Nature and ScopeThe Accounting Officer is responsible for performing full cycle accounts payable, maintaining, and supporting the billing and collection processes within the Finance department, and ensuring accounting and reporting functions are carried out to meet internal and external reporting requirements in an accurate, timely fashion. This position will positively promote and create an environment that demonstrates SIIT's vision, mission, and mandate. General AccountabilityAccountability includes preparation and processing of accounting entries, maintaining, and updating financial spreadsheets, generating financial reports, identifying discrepancies, reconciling accounts, and revenue collection. In addition, the position also requires strong communication and follow-up with clients, and collaboration with other departments to meet deadlines. The Accounting Officer serves a key role in maintaining and supporting the financial processes of accounts receivable and accounts payable within the Finance department. The position is required to provide accounting assistance and general accounting functions; the work is analytical, complex and includes problem solving, flexibility and effective time management to meet crucial deadlines. This position provides additional support as needed and includes the following broad range of accountabilities: Specific AccountabilitiesAccounts PayableReceive, review, follow up, track and close purchase ordersReceive and verify invoices, and follow up on outstanding invoices as requiredReconcile vendor statements for outstanding accounts and respond as requiredProcess outgoing payments, attach supporting documents, proper coding, and approvals in accordance with SIIT's signing authority policyPrepare and follow up on aged accounts payables listingsAnalyze and resolve discrepancies and issues and forward complex items to supervisor when necessaryAccounts ReceivableCreate, process and distribute invoices for tuition, funders and other clientsProcess incoming payments, attach supporting documents and prepare deposit entriesInvestigate and resolve billing and tuition discrepanciesPrepare and follow up on aged accounts receivables listings and assist with delinquent account management and collectionRespond to client or payer account inquiries as requiredProcess discontinuation forms and prepare tuition adjustments or refundsCoordinate with the Registrar's office to ensure timely and accurate payment processing, data collection and production of tuition tax receiptsAccounting & Administration Prepare and process journal entriesRespond to internal and external inquiries related to finance matters and forward complex inquiries to supervisor when necessaryProvide assistance and back-up within the Finance department as requiredAssist and contribute to the development and maintenance of an effective process and procedure manual Assist and support the institute's annual external financial audit, preparing reports and providing support as necessaryPrepare period-ending financial reports and compliance reporting as requiredEnsure the strict confidentiality and privacy of financial information as it relates to faculty and administration of the Institute, and third partiesEnsure compliance with established financial, legal and/or administrative requirementsStay current and compliant with financial regulations, standards, best practice, and work methods Maintain an accurate and efficient processing systemRequired Qualifications and Experience: A diploma in accounting/business or a related field of study is required. A minimum of one year of accounting/reporting experience is required. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Knowledge of First Nations cultures and organizations would be an asset. As an employee in the Finance department, this position is subject to accept or handle monies on behalf of SIIT. Therefore, a cleared criminal record check (CRC) is required.Required Competencies: Flexible and Adaptable, Effective Communication, Relationship Building, Results Oriented, Attention to Detail, Teamwork, Client Focus or Service, Initiative & Problem Solving.