MRWA is seeking an experienced Financial & Client Relations Specialist to join our team. This is a hands-on financial role for someone who enjoys working across accounting, financial reporting, payroll, and client support while being part of a collaborative, mission-driven organization.
The Financial & Client Relations Specialist is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting and financial operations of Watershed ME, ensuring financial information is accurate, timely, and compliant. The position manages the general ledger and financial reporting and supports budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and pricing analysis to help inform organizational decision-making and long-term sustainability.
In addition to financial responsibilities, this position works directly with utility clients to respond to questions, provide financial information, and support their ongoing needs. The Specialist will also oversee payroll processing for Watershed ME and the Maine Rural Water Association (MRWA) and cross-train on MRWA’s financial systems to provide backup support as needed.
What You’ll Do
- Perform accrual-based accounting and related financial functions for Watershed ME.
- Maintain the general ledger and ensure accurate and compliant financial records.
- Oversee bookkeeping functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, account reconciliations, and bank reconciliations.
- Prepare financial statements, business activity reports, budgets, and other financial reporting.
- Maintain the chart of accounts and ensure appropriate grant tracking, cost center allocation, and segregation of expenses.
- Manage accounts receivable collections, including monthly review of aging reports and follow-up on outstanding balances.
- Support financial forecasting, cost analysis, and pricing strategy.
- Process employee time logs and payroll for Watershed ME and MRWA, including expenses, paid time off, and related items.
- Administer employee benefit processes, including enrollments, terminations, and payments.
- Reconcile payments, process travel reimbursements, and complete remote bank deposits.
- Coordinate financial audits and work directly with auditors to provide documentation and respond to questions.
- Assist with required federal, state, and local tax filings.
- Respond to client inquiries and provide ongoing financial support tailored to individual utility needs.
- Cross-train on MRWA accounting and reporting functions to provide backup support as needed.
- Travel to National Rural Water Association conferences as required.
What We’re Looking For
- Associate degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; bachelor’s degree preferred.
- At least 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
- Experience working in both for-profit and nonprofit environments is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of accrual-based accounting principles and GAAP.
- Proficiency in QuickBooks Online, including the ability to configure, troubleshoot, and maintain system accuracy.
- Working knowledge of nonprofit and grant accounting, including cost center tracking and funder requirements.
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis.
- Experience with account reconciliations, journal entries, financial reporting, payroll, and timekeeping systems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to explain financial information clearly to individuals with varying levels of financial knowledge.
- Ability to work collaboratively with internal team members, clients, auditors, and other external partners.
- High level of discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information.
The Right Fit
We’re looking for someone who is not only strong technically, but who also enjoys working with people. The ideal candidate is organized, responsive, detail-oriented, and comfortable taking ownership of financial processes while building positive relationships with the clients and colleagues they support.
If you’re an experienced accounting professional looking for a role where you can combine your financial expertise with meaningful client interaction, we’d love to hear from you.
Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
