SAIPA Clerk Internship – Pretoria

Full Job Description: Junior Financial Accountant

Are you a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for financial accounting? We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Junior Financial Accountant to join our growing team. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or an individual with foundational experience in financial services to kickstart their career within a supportive and professional environment.

Educational Qualifications:

• BSc / BCom Financial Accounting Degree: A Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree with a specialization in Financial Accounting is a fundamental requirement for this role. We are looking for candidates who have a strong theoretical understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, taxation, and auditing concepts acquired through their academic studies. Evidence of successful completion of a relevant degree from an accredited institution is essential.

Experience & Professional Development:

• Graduates or SAIPA Articles Experience (One Year or Less): We welcome applications from ambitious recent graduates who are eager to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. For those who have begun their professional journey, we will consider candidates with up to one year of SAIPA (South African Institute of Professional Accountants) articles experience within an accounting firm. This experience would ideally involve exposure to various accounting functions, client engagements, and the day-to-day operations of a professional practice. While direct SAIPA articles experience is highly valued, we are equally enthusiastic to onboard bright, fresh graduates who demonstrate a strong aptitude for learning and a commitment to professional growth.
• Duration of Experience: This role is specifically tailored for individuals with between 0 and 1 year of professional experience. This includes both direct work experience and time spent during articles.

Technical Skills & Software Proficiency:

To excel in this role, proficiency in key accounting and office software is crucial:

• MS Excel (Advanced Proficiency): A strong command of Microsoft Excel is non-negotiable. This includes, but is not limited to, the ability to create and manipulate complex spreadsheets, utilize advanced formulas (e.g., VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, SUMIFS, PivotTables), perform data analysis, and generate clear and accurate reports. You will be expected to use Excel extensively for reconciliations, financial modeling, budgeting support, and various other analytical tasks.
• Draftworx: Experience with Draftworx, a leading financial statement and working paper software, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with its functionalities for trial balance import, working paper preparation, and financial statement generation will be a significant asset.
• Pastel Partner: Demonstrated proficiency in Pastel Partner, a widely used accounting software package, is required. This includes experience with general ledger entries, processing invoices, managing accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and generating standard financial reports.
• Pastel Payroll: Experience with Pastel Payroll software is also essential. This involves understanding payroll processing, statutory deductions (PAYE, UIF, SDL), leave management, and generating payslips and payroll reports.

Language Proficiency:

• Must be well versed in Afrikaans and English (Speak/Read/Write): Excellent communication skills in both Afrikaans and English are mandatory. This includes the ability to:
  • Speak: Engage in clear, professional, and articulate conversations with colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders in both languages.
  • Read: Comprehend and interpret financial documents, legal texts, emails, and internal communications in both languages.
  • Write: Produce professional, grammatically correct, and concise written correspondence, reports, and other documents in both languages. The ability to communicate effectively in both official languages is critical for internal collaboration and serving our diverse client base.

Key Responsibilities (Illustrative, not exhaustive):

As a Junior Financial Accountant, your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Assisting with the preparation of financial statements and management accounts.
• Performing bank and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Processing general ledger entries and journal adjustments.
• Assisting with the preparation and submission of VAT, PAYE, and other statutory returns.
• Supporting the audit process by preparing working papers and providing necessary documentation.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Assisting with payroll processing and related administration.
• Interacting with clients to gather information and resolve queries.
• Contributing to ad-hoc financial projects and reports as required.

Personal Attributes:

We are looking for an individual who is:

• Highly analytical with a strong attention to detail.
• Proactive and takes initiative.
• A quick learner with a desire for continuous improvement.
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Organized and able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Possesses strong problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrates a high level of integrity and professionalism.

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to develop your financial accounting skills, gain exposure to a diverse range of clients and industries, and contribute meaningfully to a reputable firm. If you meet the above criteria and are eager to embark on a rewarding career path, we encourage you to apply!

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