Accounting Associate

Description
Job Summary:
The Accounting Associate plays a vital role in supporting the mission of St. Louis Catholic Church by ensuring responsible stewardship of the parish’s financial resources. Reporting directly to the Accounting Manager. This position provides accurate and timely financial processing, contributing to the effective management of the generosity entrusted to the parish. Success in this role requires exceptional proficiency in office applications, including QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise, as well as outstanding customer service skills to support the parish and school in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Familiarity with Catholic parish or school settings is a plus, as the role contributes to the administrative ministry of St. Louis King of France Catholic Church and School.

Mission Statement:
The mission of St. Louis Catholic Church is “To unite God’s people in the sacraments, steward His generosity, and evangelize the community.”

Ministerial Character
The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the parish (St. Louis King of France Catholic Church and School – Austin, Texas) which the Bishop has entrusted to him. He makes Christ’s mission present and enduring in the parish. In order to fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people). He shares with them his mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.
Positions employed at St. Louis King of France Catholic Church and School – Austin, Texas help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description. Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

Essential Job Duties:

· Financial Operations:
o Prepare, record, and document all bank deposits for the parish and school, including school receivables, ensuring detailed accounting for the Accounting Manager and supporting the stewardship of parish resources.
o Organize and track receipts for credit and debit card expenses.
o Maintain digital records of invoices, deposits, expenses, and reports, ensuring proper filing and accessibility.
o Coordinate accounts receivable and payable activities with the parish and school offices.
· Administrative Support:
o Process vendor orders for supplies and services in accordance with parish purchasing policies, ensuring resources are used responsibly and effectively.
o Assist in coordinating storage and destruction of accounting files per Diocese of Austin retention policies.
· Collaboration and Communication:
o Work closely with the Accounting Manager, Principal, and COO to ensure adherence to financial protocols and to foster collaboration that supports the parish’s mission of evangelization and community building.
o Provide support for special projects and tasks as assigned by the Accounting Manager or COO.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Knowledge of the structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
· Proficiency in financial software, including QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise, or the ability to quickly gain proficiency within a few weeks of hire.
· Strong technical and administrative skills, with the ability to navigate office applications efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
· Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
· Outstanding customer service skills, with the ability to communicate professionally and compassionately with diverse groups, including clergy, staff, and parishioners.
· Strong analytical skills for problem-solving and ensuring accuracy in financial processes and documentation.
· Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate discretion in handling sensitive matters.

Minimum Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, with at least 3 years of professional experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial operations; OR
o At least 5 years of proven experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial operations, preferably in a parish, school, or non-profit setting.
· Baptized Catholic, actively living their faith, preferred
Licenses/Certifications:
· Valid Texas driver’s license.
· Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period

Working Conditions:
· All employees of the parish are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church.
· The parish is an at-will employer.
· All buildings and vehicles owned by the parish are tobacco free.
· Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.
· Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.
· Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech including Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.
· Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.
· May be required to use personal or parish vehicles to drive to off-site locations.
· Travelling within and outside the parish to meetings and other events may be required, and travel may include overnight lodging.