Staff Accountant

Capital Area Transit System (CATS) is seeking a  detail-oriented and highly analytical Staff Accountant to support the agency’s financial operations. This role has primary responsibility for Accounts Payable (AP) while also supporting general ledger, reconciliations, and month-end close activities.

The ideal candidate brings strong accounting fundamentals, experience in high-volume AP environments, and the ability to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong internal controls within a public sector, audit-driven environment. This position will also provide limited backup support for payroll processing as needed.

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Payable

• Oversee full-cycle Accounts Payable, including high-volume invoice processing
• Review and approve invoice coding, supporting documentation, and compliance with procurement requirements
• Perform 3-way matching (PO, receipt, invoice) and resolve discrepancies
• Manage vendor relationships, including issue resolution and payment inquiries
• Prepare and process weekly payment runs (checks, ACH, and electronic payments)
• Maintain vendor files, including W-9s and 1099 reporting

General Accounting

• Prepare and post journal entries
• Perform monthly account reconciliations, including AP and accruals
• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes
• Maintain accurate and audit-ready financial records
• Support financial reporting and analysis as needed

Compliance & Audit

• Ensure adherence to internal controls, agency policies, and applicable regulations
• Assist with internal and external audits by preparing schedules and documentation
• Support compliance with public sector accounting standards and reporting requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Minimum of 3–5 years of accounting experience, including significant AP experience
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial processes
• Experience with accounting/ERP systems (e.g., Netchex, Tyler, or similar)
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• Public sector or government experience
• Knowledge of procurement and purchase order systems
• Experience with month-end close and financial reporting
• Knowledge of payroll processes and wage regulations
• Experience supporting audits