Accounts Payable & Office Assistant
Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich
About the Diocese of Norwich
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich serves the faithful across Eastern Connecticut and is committed to advancing the mission of Jesus Christ through worship, evangelization, education, charitable outreach, and stewardship of resources. The Diocese supports parishes, schools, ministries, clergy, and lay leaders in fostering vibrant Catholic communities rooted in faith, service, and discipleship.
As a diocesan employee, you become part of a faith-driven organization where professional excellence and Catholic values work hand in hand. The Diocese seeks individuals who embrace a culture of stewardship, integrity, respect, accountability, and service. Employees are expected to support and promote the mission, teachings, and values of the Roman Catholic Church while helping to create and sustain a strong Catholic culture throughout the organization.
Position Summary
The Accounts Payable & Office Assistant is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of accounts payable transactions, payroll administration, reconciliations, and financial recordkeeping for diocesan operations and affiliated entities.
The ideal candidate will possess strong accounting and organizational skills, maintain strict confidentiality, demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, and provide excellent customer service to vendors, clergy, parishes, and diocesan staff.
Essential Responsibilities
Accounts Payable Administration
- Review, verify, code, and process vendor invoices.
- Match invoices to purchase orders and receiving documentation.
- Ensure appropriate approvals and compliance with diocesan financial policies.
- Schedule and execute payments through checks, ACH transactions, and wire transfers.
- Process payments accurately and within established deadlines.
- Reconcile vendor statements and investigate discrepancies.
- Resolve billing disputes and payment issues in a timely and professional manner.
- Respond to vendor and internal department inquiries regarding payment status, account balances, and payment procedures.
Financial Reconciliation and Record Management
- Maintain accurate accounting records and organized digital and paper files.
- Support internal and external audit requirements through proper documentation and record retention.
- Perform bank-to-book reconciliations for the Annual Catholic Appeal entity.
- Research and resolve reconciliation variances and reporting discrepancies.
Annual Catholic Appeal Accounting
- Manage accounting entries for Annual Catholic Appeal pledges and collections.
- Record and reconcile donor pledge activity accurately and timely.
- Assist with financial reporting related to Annual Catholic Appeal operations.
Payroll Administration
- Prepare and process biweekly payroll for two organizations and approximately 15 employees.
- Ensure payroll is processed timely, accurately, and in compliance with applicable regulations.
- Maintain payroll records and support payroll-related reporting requirements.
Compliance and Reporting
- Prepare and distribute annual IRS Form 1099 reporting for vendors.
- Invoice the Priest Retirement Plan on a quarterly basis.
- Assist with year-end financial reporting and audit activities as assigned.
Parish and Risk Management Support
- Work collaboratively with parishes to ensure Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) are obtained and maintained in accordance with diocesan policies and insurance requirements.
- Assist with tracking compliance and maintaining supporting documentation.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Minimum of three years of experience in accounts payable, payroll, bookkeeping, or accounting functions.
- Experience with nonprofit, religious, or diocesan organizations is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Working knowledge of accounting principles and accounts payable practices.
- Understanding of payroll processing and applicable tax reporting requirements.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and QuickBooks Desktop.
- Experience with accounting and payroll software systems.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
- Strong customer service orientation and collaborative work style.
Catholic Identity and Mission Commitment
As an employee of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich, the successful candidate is expected to support the mission and values of the Catholic Church and contribute positively to a workplace culture grounded in faith, stewardship, integrity, and service. Employees are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects Catholic teachings and fosters respect for the dignity of every person.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are invited to submit a résumé to Paul Dillon, Diocesan Finance Officer, at paul.dillon@norwichdiocese.net.