Junior Accountant

Junior Accountant at the International Republican Institute (IRI)

The International Republican Institute (IRI) advances democracy and freedom. We link people with their governments, support politicians to be responsive to citizens, and motivate those citizens to engage in the political process.

At IRI, every employee plays a crucial role in advancing our mission across the globe. We're looking for passionate individuals who embody our Core Values and are eager to contribute to our dynamic team. Our values include:

• Respect: We lead with trust, empathy, and dignity; empowering colleagues and partners.
• Teamwork: We collaborate across teams; solve problems together; are humble and ready to learn.
• Ownership: We take initiative; champion solutions; deliver results for IRI's mission.
• Excellence through Execution: We balance thoughtfulness with timeliness; learn from results; prioritize progress over perfection.
• Transparency: We share information openly; give direct feedback; build trust through honest communication.
• Freedom: We are empowered to make decisions, try new approaches, and adapt as needed.

About the Role: Junior Accountant

The Junior Accountant provides timely, collaborative, and customer-focused support to the Finance Department in carrying out accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and accounts payable functions.

This position is located in Washington, DC. The Junior Accountant is expected to work in-office at least two days per week, typically Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Key Responsibilities

• Accounts Payable (AP) & Accounting Operations:
• Prepare and process AP invoices and bills for vendors and contractors.
• Assist in day-to-day accounting operations, including:
• General ledger account reconciliations.
• Preparation of journal entries.
• Maintenance and filing of financial documentation.
• Budget reviews and financial analyses.
• Accounting calculations and reconciliations.
• Other duties assigned by management.
• Compliance & Financial Reporting:
• Ensure compliance with funder regulations, donor requirements, and IRI policies and procedures.
• Assist in preparing financial reports for funders and IRI management.
• Maintain current knowledge of funder regulations and IRI financial policies and procedures.
• Serve as a resource to program teams regarding financial policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.
• Collaboration & Customer Service:
• Develop and maintain productive working relationships with DC-based program teams, Program Services colleagues, and other internal stakeholders.
• Provide responsive and customer-focused support to internal clients across the organization.
• Audit Support:
• Assist with the preparation and coordination of annual organizational audits, funder audits, and program-specific audits.
• Compile, organize, and maintain supporting documentation required for audit reviews and inquiries.
• Additional Responsibilities:
• Perform other accounting, financial, and administrative duties as assigned.
• Contribute to process improvements and other Finance Department initiatives as needed.

Note: This post is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required in this role. Further details of the role will be shared during the recruitment process.

What We're Looking For:

We seek a passionate and experienced individual with:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 1 year of accounting or finance experience.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal regulations, including 2 CFR 200.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software such as JAMIS Prime, Costpoint, or similar ERP systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn new systems, processes, and technologies.
• Demonstrated initiative in identifying opportunities to improve processes and efficiencies.
• Creative, innovative, and enthusiastic approach to work.

IRI Total Compensation:

The anticipated compensation range for this position is $21.50/hour to $27/hour USD.

The pay for this position is determined based on a wide variety of factors including but not limited to an individual's professional experience, qualifications, education and other business needs along with internal equity considerations. Employees are not typically hired at the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are made based on the aforementioned considerations.

We Offer:

An empathetic and dedicated work environment with generous benefits that demonstrates IRI's commitment to all dimensions of employee wellness, including:

• Health and Wellness Support: Significant coverage of health, dental, and vision insurance costs. Meaningful assistance programs through an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) and Rula (access to mental health experts).
• Long-term Financial Health: Retirement plan with generous employer contribution (vested after 12 months).
• Hybrid and Flexible Work: Hybrid and telework options.
• Time Off: Company-paid holidays, parental leave, generous vacation, sick, and personal leave days.
• Family Support: Dependent Care FSA
• Learning and Development Opportunities: Annual allowance for professional development courses and seminars along with access to world-class e-learning via eCornell.
• Compensation Equity: Regular competitive review of internal and external equity to ensure fairness in pay for employees working in similar jobs requiring comparable knowledge, skills, and experience.

Benefits, professional development, and flexibility offerings may vary based on employment classification and location.

Application Instructions – Resume, Cover Letter, References:

In your application, please include a copy of your most up-to-date resume along with a cover letter that outlines your background and explains why you are interested in this opportunity. Additionally, please include the contact details of at least 2-3 professional references. If you are selected for an interview, we will contact your references before the final interview.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.