Job Summary:

The accountant is responsible for all aspects of accounting: general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, reconciliations, and donations of the Parish (not including the parish's school).  The accountant reports directly to the Director of Parish Life and Discipleship and operates under general supervision with latitude for the use of independent judgement and initiative. 

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the Parish (St. Helen Catholic Church - Georgetown, Texas) which the Bishop has entrusted to him.  He makes Christ’s mission present and enduring in the parish.  To fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people).  He shares his mission with them and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Positions employed at St. Helen Catholic Church - Georgetown, 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: 

Catholic Mission and Ministry Commitment: 

· Support and uphold the mission of St. Helen Catholic Church and the philosophy of Catholic ministry in both professional and personal conduct. Serve as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings and principles of the Catholic Church. Foster ongoing spiritual and professional growth through participation in liturgical celebrations, faith formation, training opportunities, and reflection activities as directed.

Accounting Duties: 

· Budget Management: Prepare budget reports for department heads and the Finance Council. Develop annual budget forecasts, coordinate the budgeting process, finalize the fiscal-year budget, and submit required budget documentation to the Diocese.

· Financial Reconciliation and Reporting: Reconcile QuickBooks profit and loss expense accounts monthly to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial records. Investigate and resolve discrepancies and support the preparation of accurate financial reports.

· Cash, Credit, and Investment Management: Maintain parish investment, bank, credit card, and line of credit accounts. Process checks and deposits, perform timely reconciliations, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and diocesan policies and procedures.

· Accounts Payable and Vendor Administration: Process payments and ensure invoices are prepared and distributed promptly. Maintain accurate vendor records, including W-9 documentation, and prepare annual Form 1099 filings in accordance with IRS requirements.

· Payroll and Benefits Administration: Process accurate and timely bi-weekly payroll through Paylocity, including employee retirement contributions, health insurance deductions, and other related payroll transactions.

· Stewardship and Collections Management: Oversee the weekly counting and deposit of parish collections. Prepare weekly stewardship reports and the annual second collection schedule, and assist with the preparation and distribution of year-end contribution statements to parishioners.

· Annual Catholic Services Appeal Coordination: Serve as the parish point of contact for the Annual Catholic Services Appeal (CSA), coordinating communications, tracking contributions, and providing financial reporting as required.

· Fall Festival Financial Management: Manage all financial aspects of the parish Fall Festival, including budgeting, cash handling procedures, payment processing, reconciliations, financial reporting, and compliance with parish policies.

· Additional Responsibilities: Perform all other duties as assigned to support the mission, ministries, and operational needs of the parish.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

· Knowledge of Roman Catholic Teachings: Knowledge of Roman Catholic teachings and an understanding of parish and diocesan structures and operations.

· Accounting Proficiency: Strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting practices, financial reporting, and internal controls, with the ability to accurately read, analyze, and interpret financial statements.

· Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, fostering collaboration, understanding, and positive working relationships.

· Technical Expertise: Proficient in QuickBooks Desktop, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word, with the ability to leverage technology to support efficient financial operations.

· Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively and respectfully with clergy, staff, parishioners, volunteers, and vendors.

· Organizational Excellence: Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize responsibilities, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.

· Professional Demeanor: Demonstrates professionalism, discretion, and respect in all interactions while maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive information.

· Adaptability: Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately, adapt to changing priorities, and respond effectively to evolving parish needs.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Trainings:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a closely related field of study from an accredited American University.

Experience:

• Accounting experience is required, preferably in a parish. 

Catholic Requirement:

• Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.

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:

· Employees of Saint Helen are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the Church.

· Saint Helen is an at-will employer.

· All buildings and vehicles owned by Saint Helen are tobacco free.

· Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.

· Working on weekends and 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 dress codes and conduct standards, including but not limited to EIM standards of conduct in the workplace and outside of the workplace.

· May be required to use personal vehicles to drive to other parishes or other off-site locations.

· Traveling within and outside the parish to meetings and other events may be required.

· Will be required to conform personal and professional activities to be consistent with and supportive of the mission, purpose, and moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.