We are looking for a detail-oriented Full Charge Bookkeeper to oversee day-to-day financial operations for a law firm in Santa Barbara, California. This position will manage multi-entity bookkeeping, trust accounting, reconciliations, and payment processing while helping maintain accurate and compliant financial records. The ideal candidate brings strong QuickBooks Online expertise, sound judgment with confidential information, and the ability to work independently across a range of accounting priorities.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee complete bookkeeping activities across three separate entities within QuickBooks Online, ensuring records remain accurate, current, and properly organized.
- Reconcile bank accounts and credit card statements each month, researching discrepancies and resolving outstanding items in a timely manner.
- Administer the firm’s attorney trust account, including monthly three-way balancing and ongoing adherence to California State Bar trust accounting standards.
- Enter settlement-related deposits and coordinate the preparation of disbursements connected to client matters.
- Track individual client trust balances and maintain supporting ledger activity with a high level of precision and compliance.
- Process payments related to attorney compensation, client distributions, liens, and case-related expenses while preserving complete documentation.
- Work closely with the external accountant to support tax preparation activities, year-end close requirements, and related financial reporting.
- Prepare supporting records for annual 1099 reporting, maintain vendor files, and monitor recurring obligations such as rent, insurance, and operating expenses.
- Support payroll updates and related administrative changes through Paychex when needed, while safeguarding sensitive financial information at all times.
- At least 5 years of experience in a full-charge bookkeeping role with responsibility for end-to-end accounting functions.
- Advanced hands-on knowledge of QuickBooks Online in a multi-account or multi-entity environment.
- Demonstrated success performing reconciliations for several bank and credit card accounts with strong accuracy.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize competing deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Strong analytical mindset and close attention to detail in financial recordkeeping and transaction review.
- Clear communication skills and the discretion required to manage highly confidential financial information.
- Preferred background in legal accounting, including experience with attorney trust accounts and law firm financial operations.
- Familiarity with contingency-fee practices and exposure to the Paychex payroll platform are strongly preferred.