Staff Accountant presso Audubon Nature Institute

Position Title: Staff Accountant

Department: Finance

Reports To: Director of Finance

Location: Zoo

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Type: Full Time

Who We Are 

Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

What You will Do 

The Staff Accountant will assist the Director of Finance with the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department. The position is responsible for performing monthly journal entries, account reconciliations, and account analyses. The position will also assist with the managing of financial reporting, internal control structure design and compliance, budget preparation and reporting, cash flow, short-term investments, and auditor relations (external, IRS, sales tax).

Day to Day Responsibilities (Limit to most important/top 10 duties if possible)

• Record monthly journal entries including Sage- depreciation entries.
• Process monthly Sales Tax.
• Complete account reconciliations and account analyses.
• Coordinate the reconciliation and upload of the ticketing system revenue to the general ledger.
• Ensure that billing and collection efforts are effective.
• Ensure that underlying accounting records support the preparation of accurate, timely, financial statements.
• Assist with conducting all audits - IRS audits, external audits, etc. Responds to comments and other audit matters.
• Supervise Accounting Clerk.
• Reconcile monthly endowment investment statements.
• Reconcile pledges receivable quarterly.
• Manage restricted balances quarterly, including restricted contributions, and releasing funds when appropriate.
• Participate in the annual budget process.
• Provide leadership in the office by setting high standards for quality and timeliness, while maintaining flexibility in dealing with employees.

Additional/Overall Skills:

• Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
• Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
• Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
• Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
• The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

Must Haves: (required for the role)

• BS in Accounting or higher degree required
• Advanced practical knowledge of accepted accounting policies and practices
• Ability to handle administrative details without excessive supervision
• Ability to establish and maintain effective, efficient, and cooperative relationships with employees, senior administration, vendors, and customers
• Proficiency in Outlook/e-mail, MS WORD, MS EXCEL, database programs, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Ability to exercise mature judgment in the maintenance of confidential business matters and the treatment of employees and others
• Professional commitment to getting the job done 
• Excellent mathematical skills 
• Excellent interpersonal skills required
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to efficiently handle high volume workload
• Ability to work independently as well as a member of a team
• Ability to exercise mature judgment in the maintenance of confidential business matters and the treatment of employees and others
• Professional commitment and maturity

Nice-to-Haves: (preferred for the role)

• Experience in Microsoft Dynamics SL
• CPA or similar license 

Physical Requirements: (Add per list provided based on role type)

• Ability to sit for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
• Minimal standing and walking required.
• Occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 10 pounds.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate office equipment, including computer keyboards, telephones, and printers.
• May involve repetitive motions.
• Clear and concise vision (with or without correction) for close-up work.
• Indoor office environment.
• Climate-controlled setting.
• Minimal exposure to noise, vibration, or other environmental hazards.