Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Vision insurance

Position Overview:

The Business/Finance Manager will be responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day financial operations of the school, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and maintaining a well-organized, efficient business office. This role will involve a blend of accounting, financial planning, and human resources management. The ideal candidate will be able to balance strategic and operational functions, all while supporting the school’s mission and values as a private Christian institution.

All Staff Responsibilities:

Provide a safe school environment, indoors and out, per directives regarding building operations (keys, fobs, alarm codes), the Daystar Distinctives and Responsive Classroom practices

Participate in a brief staff prayer to start the day at 7:35am on Monday through Thursday in the Gathering Place

Participate in school engagement events to promote a positive school culture

Financial Management:

Oversee the school’s financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.

Prepare and present financial statements to the Finance Committee, Head of School, and Board of Directors.

Ensure the school's accounting records are accurate, compliant, and up to date.

Monitor cash flow, accounts payable, and accounts receivable to ensure financial stability and future growth.

Manage and reconcile the school’s bank accounts and financial transactions.

Conduct financial analysis to identify opportunities for cost reduction, revenue generation, and process improvements, providing recommendations to enhance the school’s financial health and operational efficiency.

Process requisitions for the procurement of supplies, instructional materials, furniture, and equipment, ensuring timely and cost-effective purchasing in line with the school’s needs and budget.

Administer staff reimbursement for business-related expenses, ensuring all submissions are accurate, properly documented, and in compliance with school policies.

Allocate and manage Daystar credit cards for appropriate staff members, ensuring responsible use and adherence to school guidelines for purchases and expenditures.

Coordinate with external accountants for year-end audits and tax filings.

Familiarity with the student information system to ensure accuracy and timely access to student data for financial and administrative purposes.

Manage financial aid for Daystar families, including processing applications, ensuring eligibility, and coordinating disbursements in accordance with school policies.

Payroll Administration:

Process bi-weekly payroll for all staff and faculty members, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

Maintain and update employee records to ensure payroll accuracy (e.g., pay rates, tax withholdings, benefits deductions).

Ensure all payroll taxes, withholdings, and filings are compliant with federal, state, and local regulations, including Illinois state-specific laws.

Address payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.

Benefits Administration & Vendor Negotiations:

Negotiate and manage employee benefits packages with vendors (health, dental, retirement, etc.).

Administer employee benefits programs, including enrollment, changes, and claims resolution.

Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regarding employee benefits (e.g., ACA, ERISA, COBRA) and maintain up-to-date knowledge of applicable HR laws.

Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits and insurance-related questions.

Assist employees in understanding and navigating the benefits offerings and compliance requirements.

Human Resources Compliance:

Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in accordance with state and federal HR regulations.

Ensure the school remains in compliance with Illinois labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, leave policies, and other employee rights.

Manage new hire onboarding processes, including benefits enrollment and required documentation.

Coordinate employee training and professional development as needed, including HR compliance topics.

Oversee the assignment of CPDUs (Continuing Professional Development Units) through the Illinois State Board of Education, ensuring proper setup and providing necessary documentation for staff compliance.

Essential Functions Relative to Members of Daystar’s Administrative Team:

Provide reports to the Daystar Board as requested.

Serve on schoolwide committees as requested.

Participate in and assist with planning and implementation of staff-wide professional development.

Participate in regular Administrative Team meetings, providing counsel and insight on areas impacting the school as a whole.

Participate in planning and management of schoolwide events.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field.

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a business or financial management role, ideally within an educational or nonprofit setting.

Strong understanding of payroll systems, benefits administration, and HR compliance, particularly in Illinois.

Experience with financial software (e.g., QuickBooks, ADP, or similar systems).

Knowledge of applicable state and federal human resource and tax laws, employment regulations, and benefits compliance.

Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.

Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

A personal commitment to the mission and values of Daystar Academy is required.