Financial Accountant (Payroll & Reporting)

Under the direction of the Executive Director, Finance, the Financial Accountant is responsible for daily accounting functions and supports the full accounting cycle including general ledger maintenance, financial reporting, and analysis. The Financial Accountant also administers and processes payroll in close collaboration with the People & Culture team. The Financial Accountant contributes to core finance functions - such as budget accounting, accounts payable/receivable, and bookkeeping - while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and adherence to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This position serves as a key link between employee compensation activities and the organization's financial reporting. The Financial Accountant is responsible for carrying out all activities of the department in such a manner that fulfills LifeWays' mission, vision, and values. Essential Functions Records and posts daily transactions along with preparing and processing monthly journal entries; including but not limited to cash receipts, accounts payable, and payroll. Maintains appropriate work papers. Reconciles and monitors a variety of general ledger accounts and related revenue/expenditure accounts, including payroll-related accounts such as wages, taxes, and benefits. Assumes an active role in implementation, monitoring, and maintenance of the annual budget, including personnel and payroll projections. Processes and administer payroll, ensuring accurate and timely calculation of wages, overtime, and deductions in compliance with applicable laws and organizational policies. Maintains payroll records, including employee earnings, tax withholdings, and benefit deductions; ensures confidentiality and accuracy of all payroll data. Coordinates payroll-related reporting, including preparation and submission of payroll tax filings and required state and federal reports. Assists in compiling financial data and assists in preparation of Financial Reports including but not limited to; Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reports, including Financial Status Reporting (FRS), and Contract Reconciliation and Cash Settlement (CRCS). Assists in preparation of monthly financial reports for the LifeWays Board of Directors' Program & Finance Standing Committee. Analyzes trends, costs, revenues, financial commitments, and obligations incurred to predict future revenues and expenses, including payroll and staffing costs. Participates in monthly, quarterly, and annual close-outs, including payroll accruals and reconciliations. Participates with the annual financial and compliance audits by preparing appropriate journal entries and work paper schedules, including payroll-related documentation. Prepares and enters journal entries in accounting software with appropriate support. Assists to reconcile grant funds and submit reports to the state as required. Verifies accuracy and completeness of transactions, data entry and postings and corrects errors. Knowledge and adherence to all Community Mental Health Authority policies, procedures, and the Michigan Mental Health Code. Required Education / Certification / Licensure Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or related field. Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, including payroll and financial reporting Preferred Education / Certification/Licensure Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Finance (MSF), Accounting (MBA), Business Administration (MBA) or related field. Certified Public Accountant, CPA. Certified Payroll Professional, certified government financial manager, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, CMAA, PMP, or lean six sigma yellow/green belt