Assistant accountant

OVERVIEWThe Agricultural Research and Extension Trust (ARET) is Malawi’s premier institution in tobacco research, extension, and training services. Established in 1995 and funded primarily by tobacco growers, ARET focuses on developing and disseminating tobacco technologies and training tobacco stakeholders to sustain and improve agricultural productivity while conserving natural resources.ARET invites applications from highly motivated and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Assistant Accountant, based at Kandiya Research Station in Lilongwe.REPORTS TO: Management AccountantJOB TYPE: Not specifiedAPPLICATION DEADLINE: Tuesday, 10th November, 2026POSITION: ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANTJOB SUMMARYThe Assistant Accountant will ensure the completeness and accuracy of bookkeeping transactions and support the Management Accountant in implementing internal controls and preparing financial reports.KEY REQUIREMENTSAcademic, Professional Qualifications and ExperienceApplicants must meet the following requirements:Hold a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from a recognised university.Be a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Malawi (ICAM).Have at least five (5) years of practical work experience in a busy accounting office.KEY COMPETENCIESThe successful candidate should demonstrate:Knowledge of the latest accounting standards.Excellent attention to detail.Advanced practical experience in Microsoft Excel.DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIESThe Assistant Accountant will be responsible for the following:1. Financial Reporting and BookkeepingPrepare financial statement audit schedules within the required deadlines.Assist the Management Accountant in preparing monthly management accounts.Supervise Accounts staff and ensure bookkeeping entries are completed accurately and on time.Reconcile general ledger and cashbook accounts.Process month-end accounting journals.2. Asset and Account ReconciliationMaintain the fixed asset register and reconcile it with physical assets.Reconcile accounts receivable and accounts payable.Ensure that all payment documents are complete and accurate.3. Tax Compliance and Internal ControlsAdminister tax liabilities and ensure compliance with applicable tax requirements, including PAYE, FBT, and WHT.Support the implementation of internal controls and accounting procedures.Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation.4. Budgeting and Financial AnalysisSupport the Management Accountant in preparing annual budgets.Monitor budget implementation and prepare budget variance analysis reports.Assist departments in interpreting financial reports and accounting procedures, understanding controls, and resolving related problems.5. Farm Operations and Data ManagementHelp ensure that farm operations are conducted efficiently and cost-effectively.Back up accounting data daily to support data security and continuity.HOW TO APPLYInterested and suitably qualified candidates should submit the following documents:A signed application letter.A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).Photocopies of relevant academic and professional certificates.Names and addresses of three (3) traceable referees.Applications should be addressed to:The Chief Executive OfficerAgricultural Research and Extension Trust (ARET)Private Bag 9Lilongwe, MalawiApplicants should clearly indicate “ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANT” on the envelope.Closing Date: Tuesday, 10th November, 2026Only shortlisted applicants will be acknowledged.Women are encouraged to apply.