Accounting Specialist

Accounting Specialist

Accounting Specialist Department: Finance & Administration Reports To: Fractional CFO, CEO Compensation Range: $32.00 - $38.00 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Location : Hybrid / Lake Elsinore

Position Summary

The Accounting Specialist supports the day-to-day financial operations of The Happier Life Project by maintaining accurate financial records, processing accounts payable, preparing reconciliations, supporting grant and contract billing, assisting with month-end and year-end close activities, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and funding requirements. This position works closely with leadership, program staff, contractors, vendors, auditors, funders, and external partners to support accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, grant compliance, and responsible stewardship of organizational resources. The Accounting Specialist plays a key role in maintaining financial accuracy, supporting organizational growth, and ensuring financial information remains complete, organized, and audit-ready.

Key Responsibilities / Essential Duties

• Accounts Payable & Vendor Management
• General Accounting
• Grant & Contract Accounting
• Cash Receipts & Revenue Tracking
• Audit, Compliance & Internal Controls
• Communication & Coordination

Program Responsibilities

Participate in staff meetings, trainings, supervision sessions, and organizational initiatives. Support organizational compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement efforts. Maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive financial and personnel information. Adhere to organizational policies, accounting standards, and grant requirements. Represent The Happier Life Project professionally when interacting with staff, funders, vendors, and community partners.

Required Qualifications

Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field; equivalent experience may be considered. Minimum three years of accounting, bookkeeping, accounts payable, grant accounting, or related financial experience, including tracking expenditures across multiple funding sources, grants, contracts, or cost centers. Strong understanding of general accounting principles and financial reporting. Experience preparing reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end accounting activities. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Ability to prioritize competing deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. Experience working in a nonprofit organization. Experience with government-funded grants and reimbursement-based contracts. Experience with QuickBooks Online, MIP, Sage Intacct, or similar accounting systems. Experience supporting annual audits and financial statement preparation. Knowledge of nonprofit accounting principles, grant compliance, and restricted funding.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily in an office environment with periodic interaction with program staff, vendors, contractors, auditors, and funding partners. The Accounting Specialist must be comfortable managing multiple priorities, deadlines, and financial reporting requirements in a fast-paced nonprofit environment.

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods. Ability to use standard office equipment. Ability to occasionally lift and move files, records, or office supplies up to 25 pounds.

Compensation & Classification

This position is classified as Non-Exempt and is eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with applicable California wage and hour laws.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Happier Life Project is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

At-Will Employment Disclaimer

Employment with The Happier Life Project is at-will. This means that either the employee or the organization may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law.