Offshore Bookkeeper (Independent Contractor)

The Offshore Bookkeeper is a precision-focused production role responsible for preparing accurate, complete, and review-ready bookkeeping and payroll work.

This role supports the Senior Bookkeeper and Principal by:

• Maintaining clean, structured client files
• Ensuring compliance documentation is complete
• Following documented SOPs and quality standards

All work is reviewed before client delivery. This role does not communicate directly with clients unless specifically instructed.

Key Responsibilities

1. Transaction Processing & File Maintenance

• Code daily/weekly transactions in Xero and Dext in accordance with firm standards.
• Reconcile bank feeds, credit cards, PayPal, Stripe, and clearing accounts
• Apply tracking categories and project costings accurately
• Process supplier bills and expense claims using Dext.
• Maintain structured and audit-ready client files

Output Standard: Files must be review-ready, fully reconciled, and supported with working papers.

2. Accounts Payable & Receivable Support

• Enter supplier invoices and prepare payment schedules for review
• Draft client invoices if required (not issued without approval)
• Prepare weekly/fortnightly Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable summary reports
• Reconcile supplier statements
• Identify overdue balances or anomalies for escalation

3. Payroll Support (Draft Only)

• Prepare draft payroll runs if applicable.
• Reconcile wages clearing and superannuation accounts.
• Maintain accurate employee master data.
• Prepare Payroll Tax Reconciliations as required (exposure to Payroll Tax VIC & NSW preferable).
• Prepare End-of-Year (EOFY) payroll documentation for review
• Exposure to Australian Single-Touch Payroll is a requirement for the role.

Note: Does not approve or file Single-Touch Payroll.

4. Month/Quarter/Year-End & Compliance Preparation

• Reconcile all balance sheet accounts.
• Prepare draft and custom management reports if required (Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet).
• Prepare Business Activity Statement (BAS)/Income Activity Statement (IAS) working papers and GST reconciliations. Ability to use the Xero GST Reconciliation feature within Xero is a requirement.
• Post draft journals (prepayments, accruals, loan interest, staff leave, EOFY adjustments).
• Update & maintain fixed asset registers.
• Perform internal file quality checks before submission for review.

Output Standard: It is expected that work is submitted by agreed deadlines in complete draft form.

5. Workflow & Documentation Discipline

• Update tasks and statuses in Asana daily.
• Follow all documented SOPs and QC checklists.
• Escalate discrepancies, missing information, or unusual transactions promptly. Quality Control is a high priority on a day-to-day basis.
• Maintain clear internal documentation notes.
• Contribute to process improvement recommendations.

Role Boundaries

This role:

• Does not communicate directly with clients unless authorized to do so.
• Does not lodge BAS/IAS.
• Does not approve payroll or payments.
• Does not provide advisory commentary unless otherwise requested.

All outputs are subject to review.

Performance Expectations & KPIs

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Accuracy (minimal review corrections required)
• Timeliness (meeting internal deadlines)
• Reconciliation completeness
• Working paper quality
• SOP adherence
• Proactive issue escalation
• Clear internal communication

Quality is prioritized over speed. However, consistent delivery timelines are essential.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of Bookkeeping experience with Australian clients.
• Compliance: BAS & IAS Preparation, working papers, Quality Control reviews, and GST reconciliations.
• Communication: Strong spoken and written English; clear internal documentation and collaboration.
• Other: Attention to detail, SOP adherence, time management, problem-solving, reliable remote work setup.
• Bonus: Custom Xero reports, familiarity with importing bank feeds, Dext automation, and implementing efficiencies across the firm.

Technical Software Used within the Firm (Intermediate to Advanced Level Expected):

• Xero
• Dext
• Asana
• Slack
• Google Sheets/Docs
• Microsoft Excel/Word Docs
• Microsoft Outlook
• File Management - A combination of Google Docs & Microsoft OneDrive

Work Setup

• Stable high-speed internet and quiet workspace
• Reliable computer, headset, and availability during agreed hours
• Professional home setup supporting security and confidentiality

Work Arrangement & Expectations

This is a remote role that will be set up as an independent contractor engagement.

To ensure alignment and transparency, successful candidates will be expected to:

• Be available for meetings and collaboration during core Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) business hours.
• Disclose any existing ongoing roles or client work.
• Reflect this engagement on their LinkedIn profile (clearly marked as “Independent Contractor”).