Accountant

UNIVERSITY of TORONTO STUDENT UNION

POSITION SUMMARY

The Accountant, supervised by the Director of People and Culture, supports UTSU’s financial tasks by maintaining accurate records, assisting with financial reports and reconciliations, and ensuring that policies and regulations are followed. They play a vital part in managing finances wisely and aiding decision-making. The role also involves budgeting, supporting payroll, preparing for audits, and working with teams to align financial processes with the organization’s mission.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Accountant reports to the Director of People and Culture and collaborates with the Bookkeeper and HR Assistant. This position requires accuracy, organization, discretion, and knowledge of non-profit accounting. We also value a strong commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-oppression, and accessibility.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The critical responsibilities outlined below are intended to be descriptive and do not constitute an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

Accounting & Financial Support

• Maintain and update general ledger accounts.
• Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Support the month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare journal entries, accruals, and adjustments as required.
• Reconcile accounts, including bank, credit card, and interdepartmental accounts.

Accounts Payable & Receivable

• Assist with processing invoices and expense claims.
• Maintain vendor and client accounts; track outstanding receivables and payables.
• Record and process incoming payments and deposits.
• Support issuance of invoices for services, events, and rentals.

Payroll Support and Personnel

• Assist with payroll processing by gathering and verifying timesheet data.
• Support accurate calculation of wages, vacation, sick time, and other payroll components.
• Help ensure timely submission of payroll-related documents and reports.
• Assist in the reconciliation of payroll accounts and the preparation of T4S and ROEs.
• Maintain the confidentiality of employee payroll information.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Assist in budget tracking, analysis, and forecasting.
• Help compile financial data for internal reports, funding applications, and board presentations.
• Monitor budget-to-actual variances and notify the supervisor of any significant discrepancies.

Audit & Compliance

• Assist in audit preparation by assembling documentation and supporting schedules.
• Ensure financial transactions comply with relevant policies, grant requirements, and accounting standards.
• Support the filing and remittance of statutory payments such as HST and WSIB.

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Help maintain internal control systems to ensure the integrity of financial data.
• Contribute to improvements in financial processes and procedures for greater efficiency.
• Support policy documentation and financial system updates.

Skills, Experience, and Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.
• 1–3 years of experience in accounting or finance, preferably in a non-profit or unionized setting.
• Familiarity with payroll processes and systems, including timekeeping, vacation tracking, and year-end reporting.
• Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and non-profit accounting standards.
• Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks preferred) and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with integrity.
• Commitment to UTSU’s values of equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and student advocacy.

Assets

• Experience working in a non-profit or post-secondary student organization.
• Familiarity with fund accounting and CRA charity compliance.
• Understanding of unionized work environments and collective agreements.
• Experience supporting or processing payroll using accounting or HRIS software.