Unik Construction Engineering (M) Ltd
Unik Construction Engineering ICAM Vacancies265
Vacancy Announcement
Position: Accounts Assistant (Bookkeeping & Bank Reconciliation)
Department: Finance Department
Work Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
Reports to: Head of Finance
Job Summary
We are looking for a reliable Accounts Assistant to join our finance team. This is an entry-level hands-on role, with core responsibilities of daily bookkeeping and bank account reconciliation for the company. You will also support basic finance tasks to ensure our financial records are accurate, bank accounts are properly matched, and all financial documents are filed correctly.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Record all daily accounting transactions accurately in the accounting system based on approved source documents, including payment vouchers, expense claims, invoices, receipts, and other supporting documentation.
- Ensure that transactions are posted using the correct account codes and include clear and appropriate descriptions.
- Maintain and update the accounts payable and accounts receivable ledgers, ensuring accurate records of amounts owed to suppliers and amounts due from customers.
- Review and verify all expense claims and payment requests before posting, ensuring that all supporting documents are complete and properly approved in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Assist with month-end and year-end closing procedures by reviewing ledger accounts and correcting any posting errors in a timely manner.
- Sort, bind, organize, and file accounting vouchers, documents, and financial records on a monthly basis, ensuring that records are properly maintained and readily available for review in accordance with applicable local requirements.
- Review all company bank accounts, including MWK and foreign currency accounts, on a daily basis.
- Obtain and maintain bank statements, transaction slips, and other relevant banking documents, and match bank transactions against the accounting records on a transaction-by-transaction basis.
- Prepare monthly bank reconciliation statements for all company bank accounts during the first week of each month.
- Verify payee details, payment amounts, and payment purposes before payments are processed.
- Track the status of payments and obtain and retain payment slips and other proof of payment for accounting and record-keeping purposes.
- Attend to routine banking activities, including obtaining bank statements and transaction slips, responding to routine bank queries, updating basic account information, and assisting in ensuring that company bank accounts remain operational.
- Review the cash book balance on a monthly basis and participate in cash counts to ensure that physical cash balances agree with the accounting records.
- Assist with the monthly payroll process by checking attendance records, deductions, and other payroll-related information, and supporting the processing of salary payments.
- Prepare basic information and supporting schedules for monthly VAT, WHT, FBT, and other tax-related filings with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), as well as information required for pension contributions.
- Support internal and external audits, tax reviews, and other inspections by providing the required accounting records and supporting documents, including vouchers, bank statements, invoices, and other relevant documentation.
- Perform any other basic finance and accounting duties as may be assigned by the Head of Finance.
Requirements
- Diploma or Bachelor’s – Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field; Malawian citizens are preferred.
- 1-2 years of relevant work experience in bookkeeping, accounts or finance roles; hands-on experience with bank reconciliation is a plus.
- Able to use Sage Intacct accounting software and Microsoft Excel (basic formulas, spreadsheets).
- Familiar with local commercial bank procedures in Malawi, understand basic bookkeeping rules.
- Very careful, patient and accurate with numbers; able to do routine checking work consistently.
- Able to communicate in English for daily work, can go to bank independently to handle business.
- Honest, reliable and responsible, no bad work record.
How to Apply
Please indicate “Accounts Assistant- Head Office” in your email subject line.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
About the Company
Unik Construction Engineering (M) Ltd is a prominent civil engineering and infrastructure development firm actively operating within Malawi. Specialising in road construction, bridge building, and other critical infrastructure projects, the company plays a vital role in connecting communities and facilitating economic growth across the nation. They have been instrumental in significant national undertakings, including the rehabilitation of major road networks like the Mzuzu-Nkhata Bay road and various projects for the Mpatamanga Gorge Hydro Power Project. Committed to delivering high-quality and sustainable engineering solutions, Unik Construction Engineering (M) Ltd significantly contributes to Malawi's developmental landscape.
Delivering essential infrastructure and road networks across Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for an Accounts Assistant role in Malawi, especially with a construction engineering company?
Most employers in Malawi look for a Diploma in Accounting or Business Administration from a recognized institution, such as ICAM (Institute of Chartered Accountants in Malawi) technician level qualifications or an equivalent. Practical experience with accounting software like Sage or QuickBooks is also highly valued by companies in the construction sector.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for an Accounts Assistant in a Malawian construction company?
Daily tasks typically involve processing invoices, reconciling bank statements, managing petty cash, and assisting with payroll preparation. You would also be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and supporting senior accountants with month-end closing procedures relevant to project accounting.
What is the typical work culture and professional expectation for an Accounts Assistant in a Malawian corporate environment?
Malawian workplaces generally value respect, punctuality, and a strong work ethic, often operating within a structured hierarchy. Professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and integrity in handling financial data are paramount expectations.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for an Accounts Assistant within a company in Malawi?
With demonstrated competence and further education, an Accounts Assistant can typically progress to roles like Junior Accountant, Accountant, or even Financial Officer. Pursuing professional certifications like ICAM or ACCA greatly enhances these advancement prospects within the Malawian job market.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can an Accounts Assistant expect from employers in Malawi?
Most reputable Malawian employers offer statutory benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave as per labor laws. Medical aid and pension contributions are often provided, varying based on the company's size and policy.
When applying for an Accounts Assistant role in Malawi, what do employers typically look for in a candidate and how should one approach the application process?
Employers seek candidates with relevant accounting qualifications, practical experience, and a strong grasp of financial principles, alongside attributes like integrity and attention to detail. A well-structured CV and cover letter highlighting these aspects are crucial, often submitted via email or an online portal.