Job Summary
A SAIPA (South African Institute of Professional Accountants) or SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants) clerk is typically a trainee accountant working towards a professional accounting designation. They perform various accounting and financial tasks under supervision to gain practical experience and fulfill training requirements. Here’s a general job description for a SAIPA or SAICA clerk:
Job Title
SAIPA/SAICA Clerk (Trainee Accountant)
Job Purpose
To provide support in accounting, auditing, and financial reporting activities while completing the necessary practical experience for the SAIPA or SAICA qualification.
Key Responsibilities
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Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Maintain accurate financial records and prepare journals, ledgers, and trial balances.
- Assist with the preparation and posting of general ledger entries.
- Process accounts payable and receivable transactions.
- Reconcile bank statements and perform month-end close activities.
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Financial Reporting
- Assist with the preparation of financial statements and management reports.
- Ensure compliance with IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) and other regulatory frameworks.
- Assist with the preparation of budgets, forecasts, and financial analysis as required.
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Auditing Support
- Participate in audit engagements under the guidance of a senior accountant or auditor.
- Collect, organize, and analyze financial data for audits.
- Perform compliance checks to verify adherence to internal controls and regulatory requirements.
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Taxation
- Assist with the preparation and submission of VAT, PAYE, and other tax returns.
- Stay informed on changes in tax regulations and assist with tax compliance activities.
- Respond to SARS (South African Revenue Service) inquiries and manage correspondence.
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Client Liaison and Advisory
- Communicate with clients to obtain necessary information and resolve queries.
- Provide basic advisory support on accounting, tax, and compliance issues under supervision.
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Administrative Duties
- Maintain organized records and documentation of all financial transactions.
- Prepare and file documents in compliance with company policies.
- Assist with other ad hoc duties as needed within the accounting department.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
- Professional Training: Enrollment or intent to enroll in SAIPA/SAICA articles.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Pastel, QuickBooks, CaseWare) and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word).
- Soft Skills: Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, time management, and the ability to work well in a team environment.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Basic understanding of South African tax laws, IFRS, and GAAP.