SAIPA / SAICA Clerk

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.