Senior Staff Accountant/ Staff Accountant

As a Senior Staff Accountant at Mercy, your main responsibilities include overseeing leases, managing invoicing and payment tracking, and preparing audit work papers. You will also compile monthly financial reports, lead the preparation of tax returns like the 990 and 5500, and reconcile various accounts. Moreover, you'll contribute to special projects requiring independent analysis and ensure all activities align with Mercy's core principles of patient-centered care.

To qualify for the Staff Accountant position at Mercy, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. While prior accounting experience is preferred, it is not mandatory. For the Senior Staff Accountant role, a minimum of five years in general accounting is required, alongside a Bachelor's degree with a major in accounting. Preferred certifications include licensure by the State Board of Certified Public Accountants.

Success as a Senior Staff Accountant at Mercy requires strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and ten-key calculations. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are crucial, along with the ability to adapt to change and attention to detail. Additionally, demonstrating leadership capabilities will help foster a collaborative environment aimed at delivering high-quality support to patient care providers.

Mercy is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively evaluating applicants for the Staff Accountant position without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, or other legally protected characteristics. This commitment ensures that we attract and retain a talented workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve.

The work schedule for the Senior Staff Accountant position at Mercy is a standard day shift, with a commitment of 40 hours per week. This structure allows for a balanced work-life dynamic while ensuring that you'll have ample opportunity to engage with team members and contribute to our mission of patient-centered care.

When answering this question, highlight your past experiences preparing audit work papers and any audits you may have led or participated in. Discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, emphasizing your attention to detail and ability to communicate effectively with auditors.

To ensure accuracy in financial reporting, I employ a meticulous approach to data reconciliation, using both automated tools and manual checks. I also prioritize open communication with my team to catch potential discrepancies early and consistently review processes to maintain high standards.

I typically create and maintain a detailed spreadsheet to track lease agreements, including payment due dates, invoicing details, and any true-ups required annually. Regularly reviewing this information helps me stay ahead of deadlines and ensure accurate financial reporting.

I handle tight deadlines by prioritizing tasks based on their urgency and impact. I break larger tasks into smaller, manageable pieces and make good use of project management tools to keep track of progress. Clear communication with my colleagues also helps us support each other during busy periods.

In preparing a tax return for an organization, I would gather all necessary financial documents, review past returns for consistency, and utilize all available deductions to minimize tax liability. I would ensure compliance with current tax laws and follow up with relevant stakeholders for any additional information required.

I have extensive experience reconciling cash and investment accounts, regularly checking transaction records against bank and brokerage statements. I am diligent in identifying discrepancies and resolving them promptly. My process ensures that all accounts remain accurate and up to date.

When faced with special projects requiring independent analysis, I start by gathering all relevant data and understanding the project's objectives. I conduct thorough research, utilize analytical tools, and outline a clear plan. Regular check-ins with my supervisor ensure alignment with company goals and expectations.

I recall a situation where a month-end reconciliation revealed an inconsistency in one of our accounts. I systematically traced back through transactions, pinpointed an entry error, and corrected it. I also implemented a weekly review process to prevent such discrepancies from recurring.

A Senior Staff Accountant plays a crucial role in supporting patient care by ensuring that the financial health of the organization is maintained. Accurate and timely financial reporting allows decision-makers to allocate resources efficiently, ultimately ensuring that care providers focus on delivering quality patient care without financial distractions.

I am drawn to work as a Senior Staff Accountant at Mercy because of the organization’s commitment to patient-centered care and its strong community presence. I believe that my values align with Mercy’s mission, and I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills to contribute meaningfully while growing in my accounting career.