Position Title: Senior Accountant

Salary Range: $60,000 - $85,000 Non - Exempt Position    

Application Deadline: 5pm CST March 5th, 2025

About Mississippi State Port Authority: Situated on the Gulf of Mexico in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Port of Gulfport is a deep-water, international seaport and a major contributor to the local and national economy. As the second-largest importer of green fruit in the U.S. and a pivotal gateway for Central American trade, it connects 75% of the U.S. market within just 24 hours. The Port is more than a maritime hub; it's a key driver of economic development and innovation in the region and State, and a significant player in global maritime trade and the Blue Economy.                  

About the Position: The Senior Accountant ensures the organization's financial integrity through accurate reporting, regulatory compliance, and efficient financial management. Key responsibilities include preparing financial statements, managing grant reimbursements, overseeing audits, reconciling accounts, and assisting with budget preparation. This role also reviews accounts payable, manages fixed assets, and ensures compliance with state and federal reporting requirements. Additionally, the Senior Accountant supports the Director of Finance in streamlining financial processes and transitioning to upgraded financial systems. This position plays a vital role in optimizing workflow efficiencies, improving financial reporting, and enhancing data accuracy to modernize financial operations.

The Essential Functions:

• Process Improvement & System Upgrades: The Senior Accountant assists the Director of Finance in identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reporting. This role supports the transition to upgraded financial software by assisting with data migration, system testing, and staff training. Additionally, the Senior Accountant analyzes financial workflows and recommends enhancements to improve automation and reporting capabilities.
• Financial Reporting & Compliance: This position is responsible for preparing and maintaining financial statements, departmental budgets, quarterly reports, grant reimbursements, and regulatory filings. The Senior Accountant ensures compliance with financial reporting requirements, including audit schedules and regulatory submissions, while also gathering, verifying, and submitting financial data for quarterly and annual state and federal reports.
• Accounting & Reconciliation: The Senior Accountant reconciles and verifies monthly accounting activity, including journal entries, general ledger closings, bank reconciliations, and cash receipts. This role coordinates monthly accruals and payments for grants, incorporates all funds into financial statements—including construction, debt service, and reserve funds—and prepares interest accruals and amortizations on investments. Additionally, the Senior Accountant maintains fixed asset reports.
• Financial Support & Other Duties: Providing financial and accounting support to the operating units of the Port Authority, the Senior Accountant ensures the accuracy and efficiency of financial operations. Other responsibilities may be assigned by the Director of Finance and senior management as needed.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• Must have good analytical skills.
• Ability to perform independently.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Must be able to perform and contribute effectively in a team environment.
• Proficient in the use of Windows based accounting software. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Excel.

Qualifications and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting from an accredited four-year college or university.
• Five (5) years’ accounting experience with three (3) years’ experience in governmental/enterprise accounting.
• Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Experience in the preparation of financial statements and reports.
• Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) within 30 days of employment. (See: https://www.tsa.gov/twic)
• Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check

We Offer: 

• A supportive, fun, and collaborative work environment on the coast of Mississippi.
• Comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and MS State PERS retirement.
• Opportunities for professional development, including tuition reimbursement after one year of employment. 

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience online or by emailing employment@shipmspa.com.