Junior Accountant

What it’s all about:
This position is responsible for daily accounting functions and accurate and timely postings of financial transactions for RIHousing’ s various programs as well as support for the Finance Division.  The position is responsible for maintaining records and accounts, analyzing ledgers, preparing wire transfers, and processing cash receipts and cash disbursements.

What you’ll do on a daily basis:        
The position's responsibilities include data entry, application of cash receipts, accounts payable processing, recording grant activity, daily reconciliations, and research. Specific duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Post cash receipts to the appropriate general ledger accounts using the Cash Management system.  Reconcile daily activity posted to bank balances.  Prepare bank deposits and initiate ACH and wire transfers.  Resolve discrepancies with deposit relationships, including bank and lockbox vendors. 
• Record customer loan payments in the loan servicing system.  Process payoffs and other cash transactions following the instructions provided.  Balance all daily transactions posted in the loan servicing system to cash deposits.  Prepare and process cash transfers to appropriate investor accounts per daily system reporting.  Process checks for the disbursement of customer escrow and reserve funds are done by instructions, and backup is provided.
• Maintain accurate accounting records and controls by following policies and procedures and complying with federal, state, and local financial and legal requirements.
• Perform customer service functions professionally.   Customer service interaction includes both internal and external customers.  Communicates with servicers, trustees, vendors, grant program coordinators, and other government agencies.
• The ability to work under time pressure and adherence to deadlines are important for success in this role.  Ability to independently manage priorities
• Recognize peak times and complete a high volume of tasks. During low-volume periods, seek additional tasks and opportunities for cross-training. Participate in special projects or research as required.

• Process and apply cash receipts, specifically as related to customer payments and payoffs.
• Process disbursements, including check requests, ACH payments, and wire transfers.
• Enter data into the general ledger and subsidiary systems in an accurate and timely manner.
• Performs special projects/research as needed.
• Understand the applicable policies, procedures, controls and authorization levels as the relate to the Junior Accountant’s job function.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration or a related field is preferred
• 2-3 year’s experience in accounting functions such as accounts payable/receivable or cash management
• knowledge of or experience in the Financial or Mortgage industry
• Hands-on experience working with general ledger and ERP systems
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills, detail-oriented
• ability to work in a multi-project environment and adhere to deadlines
• strong communication skills
• proficiency using Microsoft Excel