About the ESA

The Ecological Society of Australia (ESA) is the peak group of ecologists in Australia, representing members from across Australia who work in universities and other research organisations, government agencies, NGOs, private industry and consultancies. We are a national not-for-profit organisation formed in 1959.

Our mission is to foster excellence in ecological science and practice. We create an inclusive community to support research and knowledge sharing to better understand ecological systems. We apply this knowledge for the benefit of people and nature.

We coordinate and deliver a diverse range of activities to achieve our mission including support for science through research grants, publishing two academic journals, engagement with Indigenous Australians, policy engagement, science communication, support for ecological education, and a range of support services for members including mentoring and wellbeing support.

The ESA is a registered charity with the ACNC and has deductible gift recipient status. The organisation is overseen by a Board elected by the membership, and has a small team of staff to deliver core functions. An extensive network of volunteer working groups helps to deliver activities of the organisation.

Further information is available on our website.

Position summary

The Finance Officer supports the ESA Board in maintaining the Society’s financial integrity and accountability. The role is responsible for financial administration, reporting, compliance, and supporting the implementation of financial policies and procedures.

The Finance Officer provides a central financial service to the organisation and works collaboratively with the Executive Officer, Treasurer, and relevant governance committees. The position will continue to evolve in line with organisational needs and advances in financial systems and information technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage the Society’s agreed financial management operations.
• Prepare invoices, pay accounts, manage financial aspects of grants, including Holsworth and other Awards.
• Manage conference finances and ensure reconciliation in accordance with audit requirements.
• Record and reconcile financial data within the financial management system, including monthly journals and accruals.
• Process payroll and maintain accurate records for leave, long service leave, superannuation, and statutory payments.
• Ensure compliance with PAYG, BAS, and other statutory reporting requirements.
• Liaise with the Treasurer and the Finance Governance Working Group (FGWG) regarding investments and other financial matters.
• Prepare annual draft annual budgets for the Treasurer, FGWG and board.
• Prepare monthly financial reports.
• Maintain the chart of accounts and ensure accurate recording of all financial transactions.
• Prepare for the annual audit and liaise with external auditors.
• Provide financial and administrative support to the Executive Officer as required.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential

• Relevant accounting or bookkeeping qualifications and/or demonstrated skills.
• Well-developed and demonstrated written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in financial administration including record-keeping and budgeting.
• High level of organisation and the ability to work independently while contributing effectively as a remote team member.
• Proficiency in office and financial management software, including spreadsheets and word processing applications.
• Some flexibility to vary the day-to-day work pattern to suit short-term priorities.

Desirable

• Experience in working in a not-for-profit environment

• Demonstrated ability to liaise effectively with a broad range of stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and facilitation skills.

Reporting relationships

The position reports directly to the Executive Officer and works closely with the Treasurer, as well as the Membership and Digital Services Officer.

Terms and conditions

• Employment type: Fixed term, part time (0.5FTE) three days a week.
• Contract duration: 3 years with the possibility to renew.
• Hours: 20 hours per week, negotiated across 3-5 days.
• Remuneration: $45/hour
• Superannuation: Superannuation guarantee levy in accordance with legislative requirements to the fund of the employee’s choosing.
• Location: Flexible, home based; ESA may fund relevant office equipment.
• Travel: Occasional domestic travel and after-hours work may be required.
• Leave entitlements:
  • Annual leave: 4 weeks per annum (pro rata)
  • Personal leave: 10 days per annum (pro rata) accrued in arrears.
  • Long Service Leave: Accrued at 13 weeks after 10 years of continuous service (pro rata).
  • Probation period: 3 months
  • Termination: Four weeks’ notice required by either party without cause.

Attendance at the annual planning day and ESA conference is desirable.

Other conditions

• Conflict of Interest

Any conflict of interest between the Finance Officer and the Society will be brought to the attention of the Executive Officer in a timely manner.

• Workplace Health and Safety

The Finance Officer is required to comply with all work health safety legislation and procedures, take reasonable care for their own health and safety, and avoid actions or omissions that may place others at risk.

All incidents, hazards, or safety concerns must be reported promptly to the Executive Officer.

CONTACT:

Ms. Jacky Tierney, Finance Officer

Email: [email protected] using the subject line: Finance Officer - Remote / Work from Home enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Phone: 0412 738 911

The ESA is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as well as people of colour, people with a disability, and those of any religion or gender identity to apply.

A position description is attached.