Non Profit Staff Accountant

Job Description

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The HistoryMakers is the nation’s largest African American video oral history archive and a one-of-a-kind national educational and archival institution dedicated to preserving and making widely accessible the untold personal stories of African Americans. The collection is permanently housed at the Library of Congress and accessed by millions worldwide through The HistoryMakers’ digital archive and website(

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As The HistoryMakers continues to grow its reach, digital infrastructure, and operational capabilities, we are seeking mission-driven team members to help strengthen and scale the organization during an important phase of growth.

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Position Summary

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The HistoryMakers seeks a highly organized, detail-oriented Staff Accountant to support the organization's financial and administrative operations. This individual will play an important role in maintaining financial accuracy, supporting nonprofit accounting operations, assisting with budgeting and reporting, and helping ensure smooth day-to-day administrative processes.

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The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a small, entrepreneurial nonprofit environment where flexibility, initiative, and strong organizational skills are essential.

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This position is fully onsite in Chicago, Illinois. IT IS NOT HYBRID OR REMOTE

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Key Responsibilities

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• Manage accounts payable, bill payments, and expense processing using QuickBooks Online Advanced with expertise in fund accounting and working with nonprofits
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• Perform bank and credit card reconciliations
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• Prepare and record deposits and financial transactions accurately and in a timely manner
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• Maintain organized electronic and physical financial filing systems
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• Assist with the preparation of monthly and annual budgets and financial reports
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• Support reporting and materials preparation for leadership and Board needs
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• Monitor online donations and ensure donor acknowledgments are processed appropriately
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• Support financial tracking and administrative coordination for fundraising and capital campaign efforts
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• Assist with operational administrative tasks, including filing, correspondence, database updates, and office coordination
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• Partner with organizational leadership to support operational and financial efficiency
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• Assist with additional projects and organizational support needs as assigned
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Qualifications & Experience

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• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
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• 2–5 years of accounting experience, preferably within a nonprofit organization
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• Strong QuickBooks experience required
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• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
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• Experience with FileMaker Pro or database systems preferred
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• Experience with nonprofit fund accounting preferred
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• Strong data entry accuracy and organizational skills
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• Experience supporting audits, budgets, or grant/campaign tracking is a plus
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Behavioral Characteristics

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• Self-starter with strong accountability and ownership
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• Highly organized and detail-oriented
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• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
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• Able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
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• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
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• Flexible and adaptable within a fast-paced environment
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• Comfortable working within a small team environment where collaboration is essential
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Work Location

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This is a full-time, on-site position in Chicago, IL. The HistoryMakers does not offer hybrid or remote work for this role.

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Compensation & Benefits

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Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, with an anticipated range of $70,000-$90,000 depending on experience and fit.

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The HistoryMakers offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

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• 403(b)
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• PTO
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• Health, dental, and vision insurance
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• Tuition reimbursement
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• Student loan repayment assistance
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