Senior Accountant – Payroll & General Ledger

About the Company

The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) is a non-profit, independent, professional military and aerospace education association.

Our mission is to promote dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces as the foundation of a strong National Defense; to honor and support our Airmen, Guardians, and their Families; and to remember and respect our enduring Heritage.

Whether your background is military or civilian, journalism or policy, education or marketing, or you’re just getting started in your career—AFA’s mission has a role for you.

About the Role

The Senior Accountant – Payroll & General Ledger is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and integrity of payroll, cash, and general ledger accounting activities. This role ensures timely recording of payroll, benefits, and cash transactions, prepares journal entries, maintains fixed assets, and supports month-end close and audit processes. The position works closely with the Senior Director of Finance, HR, and other accounting staff to ensure compliance with internal controls and accurate financial reporting.

Responsibilities

Cash and General Ledger Accounting (25%)

• Monitor daily cash activity and ensure transactions are recorded timely and accurately
• Record bank sweep activity, bank fees, and interest income
• Record monthly entries related to Shop AFA and other operational activity
• Ensure accounts receivable and payroll cash activity are properly reflected in the general ledger

Payroll and Benefits Accounting (30%)

• Oversee payroll processing performed by staff or temporary support
• Prepare bi-weekly payroll journal entries
• Record benefits and 401k-related journal entries and allocations
• Review and fund retirement plan contributions
• Create monthly benefit allocations (Aetna, MetLife, Flores, etc.)
• Work with HR to ensure payroll and benefits data are accurate and complete

Balance Sheet Reconciliations and Close (20%)

• Reconcile payroll and Payflex bank accounts
• Ensure all payroll and benefits-related accounts are reconciled monthly
• Record prepaid expenses and ensure proper amortization
• Support the monthly close process and ensure accurate period posting

Fixed Assets (5%)

• Maintain fixed asset schedules
• Record depreciation and ensure proper classification of capital assets

Audit and Compliance (10%)

• Prepare audit schedules related to payroll, benefits, and fixed assets
• Support 401k audit and compliance requirements
• Assist with audit requests as needed

Systems and Process Support (10%)

• Serve as system owner for Intacct
• Ensure data integrity and proper system usage
• Support process improvements and internal controls

Other Duties as assigned

• Provide advice, support, reports to program managers and other staff as situations require.

Qualifications

Education and Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of related experience.

Education and Experience Preferred

• Experience with payroll accounting and nonprofit organizations

Certifications & Licenses Required

• None

Certifications & Licenses Preferred

• CPA or CPA candidate preferred

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of general ledger accounting, payroll, and financial reporting
• Experience with Sage Intacct or similar accounting systems
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now or similar payroll systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Skills

• Experience with payroll accounting and nonprofit organizations

Pay range and compensation package

AFA has a generous employee benefits package in addition to cash compensation. Our hiring range for this role is $82,720 - $97,500. More experienced candidates are invited to apply and you are encouraged to add your salary requirements in answer to our application.

Equal Opportunity Statement

AFA is an equal opportunity employer. We offer competitive compensation and a generous benefits package including matching contributions to our 401(k)-retirement plan, paid vacation and holidays, medical, dental, and life insurance.

Thank you for your interest in AFA, we look forward to learning more about you.