Accounting Clerk

Columbus Water Works through Westaff Staffing Agency

Columbus Water Works through Westaff Staffing Agency

Accounting & Finance

Columbus, GA, USA

Posted on Apr 30, 2026

SUMMARY: The Accounting Clerk – Accounts Payable performs a variety of accounting support functions within the Finance Department. Responsibilities include processing invoices and purchase orders, supporting all aspects of the accounts payable cycle, and ensuring the accuracy and completeness of financial records. This position maintains accounting journals, ledgers, and related documentation, enters and manages data across multiple financial systems, and reconciles records internally and externally with vendors.

The role also involves researching discrepancies, resolving vendor inquiries, and recommending corrective actions when needed. In addition, this position will be cross-trained to support billing functions and serve as a backup to Accounting Clerks responsible for customer billing, ensuring continuity of operations within the Finance Department.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Review and verify the accuracy and completeness of all accounts payable documentation, including invoices, purchase orders, vendor banking information (ACH), expense reports, and check requests
  • Process invoices and payments in a timely manner while ensuring compliance with internal controls, policies, and procedures
  • Investigate and respond to vendor inquiries; research and reconcile vendor statements; identify and resolve discrepancies to ensure accurate and timely payments
  • Maintain organized files and supporting documentation in accordance with departmental policies and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
  • Update and maintain accounting journals and assigned general ledger accounts; perform account reconciliations and assist with month-end and year-end close processes
  • Ensure receipt and validation of Form W-9 for all vendors prior to payment processing
  • Prepare and file annual Form 1099s accurately and timely, including distribution to vendors and electronic submission to the IRS in compliance with deadlines
  • Gather, compile, and assist in the preparation of financial reports and supporting schedules as needed
  • Perform general clerical and administrative accounting duties as required
  • Cross-train in billing functions within the Finance Department and provide backup support to Accounting Clerks responsible for customer billing to ensure continuity of operations
  • Routine and regular attendance in the office is required
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent GED required; at least 3 years’ accounts payable or general accounting experience preferred
  • Basic accounting principles knowledge, documentation skills, research and resolution skills, data analysis and multi-tasking skills, and reasonable problem-solving skills
  • Competency in Microsoft applications including Excel, Word and Outlook.
  • Ability to interact with employees and vendors in a professional manner
  • Ability to work independently with emphasis on accuracy and timeliness
  • Basic knowledge of methods used in maintaining customer accounts and records.
  • Basic knowledge of office terminology, procedures, routines, and equipment.
  • Basic knowledge of business arithmetic and English.
  • Mental alertness; good judgment; accuracy and integrity.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from CWW team members and vendors.
  • Must possess good customer service skills both oral and written.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

  • Ability to perform basic mathematical computations and basic Excel skills.

REASONING ABILITY:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • Possession of a valid Georgia Driver’s License and good driving record.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is not exposed to weather conditions.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: 26-38

PAY GRADE: 9