Senior Accounting Clerk

This position is responsible for court payroll and financial records and providing financial information.

Performs a broad scope of administrative payroll and accounting activities requiring the knowledge and application of accounting and payroll principles and practices.  The incumbent reviews and verifies time records and payroll data submitted by employees court-wide and verifies data within the automated time and attendance payroll system that generates the court’s payroll through the Department of Finance.  The incumbent will assist with the accounts payable function, including data entry into the departmental general ledger system and may assist accountants with reconciliations.  This class differs from the Accounting Clerk I and II by the responsibility for more complex or specialized work and the higher consequence of errors.  Work is reviewed by the Accounting Services Supervisor,  Accountant, or assigned designee, by observation where progress is assessed for accuracy, completeness, timeliness and adherence to guidelines and requirements.   Work performed by this classification is subject to audit.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

• Prepares bi-weekly time and attendance for payroll; prepares payroll summary and compensatory and overtime hours for each pay cycle; transmits complete, verified time and attendance records to Department of Finance via the automated time and attendance system; checks availability of leave accruals and compensatory leave balances.
• Maintains contact with Department of Finance, Payroll Division, concerning discrepancies with payroll checks, direct deposits, and leave issues, and separation NOPAs (Notice of Personnel Action).
• Coordinates with Division of Personnel regarding activation and deactivation of employees.
• Generates and verifies the accuracy of earnings and leave reports
• Assists in the administrative tasks of the time and attendance and payroll software to include the accuracy of user setup, profiles and payroll rules relating to court staff.
• Coordinates the training of staff in the use of the automated time and attendance system.
• Responds to employee requests for assistance with payroll and timesheet issues.
• Prepares payroll reports such as detailed staff attendance, payment and other data as required by the division directors and/or managers.
• Provides input in the improvement, and maintenance of automated time and attendance and payroll systems through coordination with information technology staff and the Department of Finance.
• Audits payroll postings for accuracy in coding and correcting errors
• Prepares or assists in the preparation of workers’ compensation report.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Graduation from an approved high school or vocational school supplemented by an associate's degree in accounting, business, finance, or related field and a minimum of five (5) years' experience in bookkeeping or accounting at the Accounting Clerk I or equivalent level.  A combination of education and experience may be considered at the discretion of the Court. 

• Must have knowledge of automated accounting and payroll systems, financial record keeping, reporting practices and modern office practice equipment.
• Must have skills in auditing timesheets and processing payroll.
• Must have skills to research, compile data, prepare correspondence, interpret policies, and develop solutions to payroll related issues.
• Must have strong computer skills using software products for payroll, financial and statistical applications.
• Must have knowledge of business English, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and a strong mathematical aptitude, data entry and problem-solving skills.
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of coworkers and court employees.
• Knowledge and understanding of generally accepted accounting principles, practices and procedures is helpful.
• Knowledge of the Vl code, accounting manual, and policies and procedures of the areas assigned.
• Ability to explain and apply laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Ability to learn computerized accounting and related programs.
• Ability to make arithmetic computations and tabulations rapidly and accurately.
• Ability to perform bookkeeping and related accounting work of considerable volume.
• Ability to recognize and reconcile discrepancies in financial records.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate and complete financial records and assist in preparing various financial reports.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, representatives of other agencies, and the general public.
• Ability to operate a calculator, personal computer, and other office equipment.
• Skilled in working under pressure of deadlines and maintaining a professional demeanor during stressful situations.
• Must exemplify the desired Court culture and philosophies.