Staff Accountant - 2 Year Assignment

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionAbout JRA The Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA) is a quasi-governmental entity dedicated to promoting economic development, revitalizing communities, and supporting strategic redevelopment initiatives throughout the City of Jackson. JRA partners with public and private stakeholders to create vibrant, sustainable growth opportunities across the city. Position Overview The Staff Accountant will support the financial operations of the Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA), including both general accounting functions and specialized financial oversight for major initiatives such as the National Folk Festival. This role is critical to maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with public funding requirements, and supporting complex, multi-partner projects. The Staff Accountant will work across departments and with external stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate, and well-documented financial reporting across multiple funding sources, vendors, and operational areas. Core Responsibilities General Accounting & Financial Operations

• Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with JRA policies and fund accounting principles
• Prepare and post general ledger entries
• Perform monthly bank and account reconciliations
• Process accounts payable and receivable, including invoice coding and approvals (AvidXchange)
• Support month-end and year-end close processes
• Assist in preparation of financial reports and internal management reporting
• Maintain documentation for audits and compliance requirements
• Support budget monitoring and variance analysis Grant & Project Accounting
• Track and report grant-funded expenditures (e.g., CDBG and other programs)
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local funding requirements
• Collaborate with internal departments, Local Festival Manager, and external partners Festival & Event Financial Operations
• Support reconciliation of festival-related expenses across multiple funding sources and accounts
• Track vendor payments, reimbursements, and outstanding balances
• Coordinate financial alignment between JRA, fiscal sponsors, and partners
• Assist with daily income reconciliation during event periods
• Track revenue streams (e.g., merchandise, beverage sales, donations) Sales Tax & Compliance
• Track vendor-related sales tax obligations in accordance with Mississippi Department of Revenue requirements
• Collect and maintain vendor tax documentation
• Support timely reporting and follow-up on compliance items Cash Management & Revenue Tracking
• Assist in implementation of cash handling and revenue tracking systems
• Monitor deposits, cash activity, and revenue accuracy
• Maintain real-time financial tracking during high-volume event periods File Management & Documentation
• Maintain organized digital file structures for all financial records
• Ensure consistent naming conventions and documentation standards
• Support shared systems for financial tracking and reporting Cross-Team Coordination
• Work closely with leadership, project managers, and the Local Festival Manager
• Communicate proactively regarding discrepancies, missing documentation, or timing issues
• Support reporting needs for leadership, board members, partners, and funders Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 2-4 years of accounting experience (public sector or project-based experience preferred)
• Knowledge of general ledger accounting, reconciliations, and accounts payable processes
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with Abila MIP and AvidXchange
• Familiarity with grant accounting and compliance (CDBG or similar programs)
• Experience in event/festival, or high-volume transaction environments
• Knowledge of Mississippi sales tax requirements
• Experience with cash handling or revenue tracking systems Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable.

They are comfortable working in both structured accounting environments and fast-paced, event-driven settings. This individual is proactive, communicative, and takes ownership of ensuring financial accuracy across multiple projects and stakeholders. Compensation & Work Environment

• Salary range: $48,000 - $58,000 (based on experience)
• Full-time, onsite role in Jackson, Mississippi
• Two-year assignment (with potential for extension)
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Workload may increase during peak project and festival periods