Bookkeeper and Accountant

Job Description

The Accountant serves as the Cathedral's primary financial steward, responsible for ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and sustainability of all financial operations. In addition to managing day-to-day accounting functions, this role provides financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic guidance to the Rector and Finance Council.

The Accountant develops and maintains financial systems, processes, and internal controls that support sound stewardship of Cathedral resources and ensure continuity beyond any individual staff member. The successful candidate is both detail-oriented and forward-thinking, capable of translating financial information into actionable recommendations that support the Cathedral's mission and long-term sustainability.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Accounting & Financial Operations
• Manage accounts payable, payroll, cash receipts, bank reconciliations, and general ledger activities.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll, taxes, benefits, and regulatory filings.
• Maintain complete and accurate financial records in accordance with diocesan policies and accounting best practices.
• Oversee month-end and year-end close processes.
• Maintain and improve financial systems, documentation, and internal controls.
• Develop scalable financial processes that ensure continuity and operational efficiency.

Budgeting, Reporting & Financial Planning
• Lead the annual budgeting process in partnership with Cathedral leadership.
• Monitor budget performance and recommend adjustments throughout the fiscal year.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and dashboards.
• Present financial results, trends, and forecasts to the Rector and Finance Council.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations regarding spending, reserves, cash flow, and resource allocation.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, operational efficiencies, and improved financial performance.
• Support long-range financial planning, capital projects, and special initiatives.

Audit, Compliance & Risk Management
• Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with auditors and diocesan representatives.
• Ensure compliance with diocesan policies, accounting standards, and applicable regulations.
• Maintain appropriate internal controls and financial safeguards.
• Prepare required financial filings, disclosures, and supporting documentation

Parish Giving & Contribution Management
• Maintain accurate parishioner contribution records and reporting.
• Oversee weekly collection processing and offering count from physical and digital giving sources.
• Coordinate volunteers responsible for collection counting and ensure compliance with diocesan policies and Safe Environment requirements.
• Administer contribution tracking systems, including ParishSoft and OSV.
• Generate donor statements and financial reports as needed.

Leadership & Collaboration
• Serve as a trusted financial advisor to the Rector and Cathedral leadership.
• Partner with ministry leaders to support responsible budgeting and resource stewardship.
• Attend staff, Finance Council, and other meetings as requested.
• Contribute to a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and budgeting.
• Ability to analyze financial data and provide practical recommendations.
• Experience developing processes, controls, and documentation that improve efficiency and reduce risk.
• Proficiency with accounting software, spreadsheets, and financial reporting tools.
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Commitment to accuracy, accountability, and stewardship.

Education and Experience
• Degree or equivalent experience in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum three years of progressively responsible accounting, bookkeeping, or financial management experience.
• Experience with nonprofit, church, school, or mission-driven organizations preferred.
• Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, audits, and payroll strongly preferred.

Disclaimer:
This job specification should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required.

About the Employer

Since 1909 we have been the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City. While we are a vibrant parish of more than 1,500 registered parishioners, our historic Cathedral also serves thousands of Catholics from across the state who come here for the sacraments, cultural events, and opportunities to put their faith into action through prayer, service, and outreach. We also oversee the Madeleine Choir School, an accredited Catholic school dedicated to forming Cathedral choristers in the rich European choral tradition, and the Good Samaritan Program, which provides more than 400 meals each day to our unhoused and neighbors in need.