Accounting Associate

Location: Syracuse, NY (On-Site)
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM - 4:00PM
Job Type: Full-time

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Compensation: $28.36-$31.20/hr DOE

About Jowonio School

Jowonio School is a not-for-profit, inclusive preschool located in Syracuse, NY. The name "Jowonio" comes from the Onondaga Nation language and means “to set free”, reflecting our belief that all children deserve the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive together.

Open since 1969, we’ve been nationally recognized for our commitment to inclusive education, family support, and transdisciplinary collaboration. Our classrooms integrate children of all abilities and provide individualized support through therapy services, adaptive approaches, and hands-on learning.

Why Work at Jowonio?

• Be part of a collaborative, and community-focused organization that values inclusion and purpose-driven work.


• Jowonio follows the SCSD school calendar and is closed during scheduled holiday breaks. While this role may require limited work during some breaks, those needs are often minimal and planned in advance.


• Enjoy a predictable schedule of 7.5-hour workdays (37.5 hours per week).


• We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees.


• Eligible employees receive 50% discounted tuition for their children enrolled at Jowonio.

Position Summary

The Accounting Associate supports the school’s financial operations by assisting with billing, accounts payable, accounts receivable, grant tracking, payroll support, and maintenance of financial records. This position works closely with the Finance Manager, Director, HR, and other key stakeholders to ensure accurate recordkeeping, timely processing of payments and billing, and compliance with established financial policies and procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Billing and Attendance (40%)

• Manage billing and claim funding from sources as funds become available for all special needs children, including coordination with district, school, and county-level staff to ensure complete and aligned records for each child.


• Integrate rates, prepare invoices, maintain billing records, and follow up with funding sources and the STAC Unit to reconcile issues.


• Maintain all child attendance records, including therapy visit logs.


• Create and distribute classroom attendance sheets and enter daily attendance into billing systems.


• Provide monthly updates of School District and County receivables on both billed and unbilled bases.


• Maintain records of year-to-date tuition and balances due for all special needs children by program served.


• Monitor daily tuition balances and address delinquent accounts in accordance with Board-approved policies.


• Interface with the school enrollment platform to create accounts and maintain records of family tuition payments.

Accounts Payable (20%)

• Prepare reimbursement checks to staff (including payroll-related reimbursements), vendors, and suppliers.


• Manage petty cash.


• Make bank deposits.


• Reconcile credit card statements.


• Update classroom budgets on a weekly basis to accurately reflect purchases and account balances.

Accounts Receivable (20%)

• Assist the Financial Director in maintaining financial records, including cash receipts and cash disbursements.


• Input all financial data into the general ledger as coded by the Finance Manager and present posted journals for review.


• Input adjusting journal entries prepared by the Finance Manager and Auditor.


• Identify discrepancies in ledgers and accounts, track discrepancies to their source, and correct errors as needed.

Other Duties (20%)

• Balance accounts and provide information to appropriate stakeholders regarding payments and balances of departmental and grant budgets, including OPWDD grants.


• Provide assistance to HR and the Finance Manager in payroll processing, including use of payroll software and time & attendance management.


• Support year-end payroll processes, including preparation of W-2s, 1099s, and tracking of 401(k) contributions.


• Provide direct assistance and backup to the Financial Director in preparation of monthly expenditure reports, budget review, and posting to the general ledger.


• Work closely with the Auditor in preparation of the annual school audit, financial statements, and annual state CFR.


• Complete all tasks and responsibilities in alignment with the organization’s financial policies and procedures.


• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field is preferred but not required.


• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in an accounting or finance role is required.


• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Systems-oriented thinker with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.


• Proficiency in Windows, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Quickbooks or comparable financial accounting software, and general database management knowledge is required.


• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality; position has access to sensitive personal and financial information.


• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders while exercising sound judgment and discretion.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while working at a computer.


• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate a computer, keyboard, mouse, calculator, and other office equipment.


• Ability to communicate effectively in order to participate in meetings and conversations.


• Ability to see clearly (with or without corrective lenses) to read computer screens and printed documents.


• Occasional lifting, carrying, or moving of office materials up to 20 pounds.


• Ability to reach, bend, or stoop to access files, cabinets, or equipment.


• Ability to maintain focus and concentration while performing detailed tasks and meeting deadlines.
  

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• Paid time off


• School calendar


• 401(k) with employer match


• Employer-paid group life insurance and long-term disability


• Voluntary life insurance
  


• Aflac supplemental insurance


• 50% preschool tuition discount for children of employees


• Supportive, inclusive work environment

Equal Opportunity Employer

Jowonio School is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.