Grant Accountant

SUMMARY The Grant Accountant will directly report to the Chief Financial Officer and support the Finance Team with a wide range of financial duties. The position will work with the accounting and reporting functions related to grant‑funded awards and contracts. The position will own the part of accounts related to these awards and contracts and will be able to provide insight and guidance to internal stakeholders. The position also takes responsibility for reporting to the funders and works as a liaison to ensure that timely and accurate information is exchanged. In addition, certain monthly and annual closing responsibilities will belong to this position. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Compiles and analyzes financial information to prepare general ledger entries, documenting business transactions as related to grant funding. Reviews and approves accounts payable and journal entries for accuracy and posts to the general ledger when the CFO requires assistance. Analyzes financial information and reviews profit and loss statements, and other reports to summarize current and projected financial position for management as it relates to grant funding and various programs and activities. Audits contracts, orders, and vouchers, and prepares reports to substantiate individual transactions prior to settlement. Makes recommendations regarding the accounting of reserves, assets, and expenditures. Assists program personnel in writing periodic reports to comply with grant funding requirements. Maintains master grant files with original grant documents, correspondence, and closeout documents, both the physical file and electronic files as appropriate. Will be responsible for setting up and maintaining all accounts, funds, and other codes and the combination of those codes. Interacts and assists a variety of staff with financial information, including information for grant applications, quarterly reports, and annual/closeout reports. Works with the Finance Team concerning desk audits and compliance visits, preparing reports, and providing critical information as requested. Is expected to perform a variety of backup functions within the finance department including grant reporting, accounts payable, report preparation, and other duties as requested. Prepares information for, provides information to, and works with a variety of auditors/regulatory persons as directed. Exercises a high level of independent judgment and discretion by performing a variety of tasks including proposal analysis and justification, budget preparation including supporting documentation/justification, and programmatic grant support. Other duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE General accounting and financial reporting procedures in accordance with the State of Illinois GATA Standards, GAAP, and OMB. Accounting Software (MIP or SAGE preferred) General office software, particularly Microsoft Office Suite. Accounts payable and general ledger accounting. Grants accounting or cost accounting SKILLS AND ABILITIES Analyze and solve problems effectively and efficiently. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Must be able to interface easily with staff, senior and executive management personnel, and funding sources. Works well with and be responsive to the needs of internal and external customers, funding sources, other provider organizations, and regulatory agencies. Manage priorities effectively to meet deadlines and demonstrate multi‑tasking skills. Assimilates new information and technology. Must be highly ethical with a high degree of integrity; self‑motivated; dependable and reliable; detail‑oriented. Must possess a valid driver’s license. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or related field. Equivalent practical experience may be considered. Minimal 2 years of experience in accounting and/or financial reporting is required. Experience with a nonprofit social service agency or grant accounting is preferred. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, climb stairs, and sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. The work environment is associated with an administrative position in an office environment. EEO STATEMENT Project NOW is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives our mission. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Accommodation is available for applicants with disabilities. Positions within Project NOW are primarily grant‑funded and funding decreases can affect our staffing needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr