Accounting Operations Specialist

*Position Summary:* This position is dedicated to supporting the internal accounting operations of Alerus Financial.
It requires application and process decision-making and change implementation for applications and processes used to support accounting functions.
Accounting functions include but are not limited to reconciliation of internal bank accounts, general ledger posting and balancing, accounts payable processing, and cash room transaction processing.
This position requires an in-depth understanding of accounting applications and processes, and a thorough understanding and ownership of accounting applications.
*Essential Responsibilities:* *Job Function 1:* _Process Support – 50%_ * Follow procedures identified and as assigned in the process ownership list.
* Balance all accounts/systems on the basis determined.
* Maintain and control all records.
* Prepare all month-end, quarter-end, and year-end reporting.
* Maintain up-to-date standard operating procedures.
* Flowchart all processes.
* Communicate, in the appropriate database, any changes or downtime in processes.
*Job Function 2:* _Application Ownership - 20%_ * Research system and process exceptions and make necessary changes.
* Implement new systems and enhancements to existing systems and processes.
* Maintain a working relationship with system vendors and product managers.
*Job Function 3:* _Customer Support - 10%_ * Promote good client relations by providing prompt and courteous service to all inquiries received.
* Maintain a relationship with internal client for problem resolution.
* Communicate variances in regular routines to internal clients.
* Identify and assist with training and support for internal clients.
* Participate in departmental meetings.
*Job Function 4:* _Product Support - 10%_ * Maintain working knowledge of all Alerus Financial products.
* Develop working relationship with the appropriate Product Manager(s).
* Communicate with appropriate Product Manager(s) regarding problems with products.
*Job Function 5:* _System and Industry Knowledge - 10%_ * Maintain in-depth knowledge of all systems.
* Maintain in-depth knowledge of banking industry.
* Attend and complete all regulatory training.
* Attend all mandatory employee training as directed by the performance plan.
* Attend all field specific training as directed by the performance plan.
*Position Requirements:* *Qualifications:* * Associates degree in accounting/finance or equivalent experience required, Bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred.
* Previous experience in accounting, finance, bank operations (loan/deposit accruals), or securities accounting preferred.
* Strong typing, 10-key and computer skills required.
* Proven ability to analyze and problem solve.
* Demonstrated knowledge handling data within Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.
* Effective research knowledge and skills.
* Ability to manage projects and implement change as needed.
*Personal Characteristics:* * Organized, strong attention to details and ability to research to find solutions.
* Professional appearance and conduct.
* Active listener.
* Maintain a positive attitude and be a team player.
* Committed to lifelong learning.
* Personal initiative and desire to collaborate with team.
*Physical Demands - Must be met with or without a reasonable accommodation:* * Extended periods of time sitting at a desk and using office equipment.
* Ability to operate a personal computer/laptop for approximately 8 hours per day.
* Extended time is spent reviewing documents, both actual papers or electronic.
* The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
Vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
* Periodically, may also do light lifting of supplies and materials which weighs in at approximately 20 lbs.
* Will spend most of time in an indoor environment.
Alerus Financial is an Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.
41 CFR 60-1.
35(c) Job Type: Full-time