About Homeward Trust Edmonton

Homeward Trust Edmonton (Homeward Trust) is a not-for-profit organization charged with ending homelessness in Edmonton. Our efforts are guided by community need and priorities as outlined in A Place to Call Home: Edmonton’s Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness. Homeward Trust has a dynamic work environment, filled with high-energy, dedicated, and passionate people.

Homeward Trust coordinates and provides resources for local efforts that address homelessness and its devastating impacts on individuals, families, and communities. We work with agencies, neighbourhoods, mainstream systems, community members, and all orders of government in pursuit of this singular objective, grounded in the belief that we can and will end homelessness in Edmonton. Homeward Trust is proud that our community is recognized both nationally and internationally as a leader in this work.

For further information visit: http://homewardtrust.ca/

Position Summary

The Accountant is responsible for full cycle accounting, technical financial support, and maintenance of accurate and timely financial records that support the organization’s operational and funding related activities. This role ensures compliance with funder requirements, supports budgeting and reporting cycles, and contributes to continuous improvement of financial processes and systems.

Reporting to the Accounting Manager, the Accountant maintains all financial processes and systems required to record and monitor Homeward Trust’s financial activities, including accounting for operating expenditures, funded programs, and multi year projects. This is a 12-month full-time contract position, with the possibility of extension.

Education and Experience

• Minimum 3 years of relevant full cycle accounting experience in accounting, finance, or business administration.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field preferred.
• CPA designation (or near completion) considered a strong asset.
• Experience working in not for profit organizations preferred.
• Experience using Dynamics 365 Business Central is an asset.
• A combination of relevant education and experience will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of accounting principles and full cycle accounting processes.
• Proficiency in AP, AR, general ledger maintenance, balance sheet reconciliations, and month end close.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with ASNPO (Accounting Standards for Not for Profit Organizations) is an asset.
• Understanding of the homeless serving sector and community based organizations in Edmonton is an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, funders, and external partners.
• Knowledge and respect for Indigenous cultures; ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to exercise discretion, compassion, empathy, and maintain confidentiality.
• Commitment to positive team culture and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

1. General Ledger & Month-End

• Perform full cycle accounting, ensuring accuracy and integrity of financial data.
• Prepare and post month end journal entries.
• Maintain all month end schedules and supporting documentation.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts (e.g., prepayments, accruals, deferred revenue) and sub ledgers
• Review expenditure postings for accuracy, proper coding, and alignment with approved budgets.
• Identify issues or inconsistencies and recommend process improvements.
• Develop guidance, templates, and tools for finance administrators to support more consistent financial processing.

1. Banking & Cash Flow

• Review bank reconciliations and support Finance Administrators as needed.
• Support the timing and execution of payments (cheques, EFT, bill payments, online banking).
• Maintain and update the organization’s cash flow forecast on a regular basis.
• Monitor cash needs and advise Finance leadership on timing considerations.

1. Financial Reporting

• Prepare monthly accounting reports for programs, departments, projects, and entity level results.
• Prepare variance analysis with clear explanations for leadership review.
• Assist with the preparation of quarterly and annual financial statements and internal reporting packages.
• Prepare standard reports required under funding agreements, ensuring compliance with reporting guidelines.
• Provide financial data and analysis in response to internal or external inquiries.

1. Compliance & Audit Support

• Prepare working papers for the annual audit and support auditors throughout fieldwork and finalization phases.
• Prepare and file GST returns.
• Provide documentation and support for funder monitoring, compliance reviews, audit requests, and special examinations.
• Maintain awareness of compliance requirements associated with funding agreements and accounting standards.

1. General Responsibilities

• Document and maintain financial processes, procedures, and workflows.
• Recommend improvements to financial systems, processes, and technology usage.
• Provide backup to other Accountants and support other Finance team members as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Measures of Success

Success in this role will be demonstrated by:

• Accuracy, completeness, and integrity of financial data, including general ledger and reconciliation work.
• Timely month end close and delivery of reporting packages.
• Clear, reliable variance analysis and audit ready working papers.
• Effective collaboration with Finance and operational teams.
• Strong adherence to compliance requirements, accounting standards, and internal controls.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of work.

Working Conditions

• Must successfully pass a criminal record check, including vulnerable sector clearance.
• Normal office environment with periodic deadlines requiring flexible work hours.
• Occasional meetings with external auditors, funders, and community partners.

While all applications are evaluated based on merit, we particularly value and recognize the unique perspectives that come from lived experiences, including homelessness or houselessness. We are deeply committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage everyone interested in joining us to apply.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.