Lead Accountant - New York, NY

The Legal Aid Society, the nation's largest and oldest public defense and civil legal services provider, is dedicated to a simple yet powerful mission: ensuring that no individual is denied the right to equal justice. For 148 years, we have protected, defended, and advocated for those who have struggled in silence—working on the front lines and behind the scenes to offer the people we serve the exceptional legal services they deserve. Through our Civil, Criminal Defense, and Juvenile Rights Practices, we provide unmatched depth and breadth of legal expertise to vulnerable New Yorkers while impacting millions through effective advocacy, impact litigation, and a legislative agenda. We are dedicated to blunting the impact of poverty on individuals, families, and communities. The Lead Accountant reports to and works closely with the Accounting Manager in overseeing and performing day-to-day accounting functions. The Lead Senior Accountant supports the accounting team of four staff accountants by ensuring adherence to internal control policies and procedures as well as accounting best practices. This position also collaborates closely with other Finance Department teams, including Accounts Payable, Payroll, Grants and Contracts, and Financial Planning and Analysis.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

General Ledger Accounting and Related Duties Assist the Accounting Manager in reviewing and analyzing general ledger accounts and proactively resolving inconsistencies under minimal supervision. Assist the Accounting Manager in preparing the monthly GAAP financial statements and supporting schedules. Perform a portfolio of monthly balance sheet reconciliations and prepare quarterly balance sheet binder for assigned reconciliations. Take part in the month-end close and associated tasks. Manage accounting for the endowment and investment accounts. Participate in preparing monthly, quarterly, and year-end journal entries. Participate in preparing 90‑day and weekly cash flow analysis. Assist in updating task procedures and documentation and in identifying process improvements. Audit, Form 990 and Ad-Hoc Projects Prepare various schedules and analyses for the annual fiscal audit. Prepare various schedules and analyses for the annual completion of the IRS Form 990. Assist with individual program audit requests. Professional Development and Other Duties as Assigned Participate in continuous professional development. Continuously learn about forms of bias in the workplace and demonstrate affirmative behaviors that support an inclusive work environment. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required qualifications: BA/BS degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. 5+ years of related experience. Experience with Financial Edge, Vena and/or Oracle NetSuite preferred. Strong Excel skills and ability to analyze large volumes of data. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Strong understanding of General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Preferred qualifications: Master's degree in finance, accounting, business administration or a related field. Nonprofit experience preferred. Experience with fiscal, compliance and program audits. Experience in developing and implementing financial systems, tools, structures, and processes. Experience with cross-departmental collaboration and internal communications. Demonstrated knowledge of nonprofit accounting. Knowledge of best practices in grants and contracts strategy and process improvement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Position Based Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Understand when to escape critical time-sensitive issues. Demonstrate a commitment to quality, accuracy, and thoroughness. Versatile in handling multiple tasks simultaneously in accordance with highest priority. Ability to meet deadlines and potentially work extended hours during month‑end and year‑end. Excellent written and verbal communication, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills. Sense of professionalism, confidentiality, and a strong work ethic. Strong analytical skills and advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, etc.). Excellent time management skills. Extremely organized and able to respond to internal and external requests. Ability to work well in a team environment. Organizational Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Commitment to Legal Aid Society's mission to secure equal justice before the law for all New Yorkers. Interpersonal and communication skills that enable healthy and productive working relationships. Ability to perform duties with the highest regard for confidentiality, integrity, and respect. Commitment to the Legal Aid Society's mission and values.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The salary range represents a good faith estimate of the range we expect to pay for this role. The actual salary offered may vary depending on many factors. Salary Range: $96,000 - $101,000 The Legal Aid Society offers a generous benefits package including health insurance, paid vacation, disability, life insurance, and more.

HIGHER EDUCATION AND LOAN FORGIVENESS

The Legal Aid Society is a qualified employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness. This position allows an employee to take advantage of PSLF and other state and federal loan forgiveness programs. New York residents may be eligible for assistance with loan repayments.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship for a work visa or permit. The organization is currently unable to sponsor employment visas or permits, except for citizens of Canada and Mexico who can receive a letter facilitating a TN visa.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

As an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer, The Legal Aid Society prohibits discriminatory employment actions based on actual or perceived race, color, size, religion, nationality, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, family structure, genetic information, military status, domestic violence victim status, arrest record, employment discrimination record, credit history, caregiver status, salary history or any other characteristic protected by law.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The Legal Aid Society is committed to a work culture of zealous advocacy, respect, diversity, and inclusion, client-oriented defense, access to justice, and excellent representation. We aim to build strong professional relationships with each client, understand diverse circumstances, and meet their needs through collaborative efforts. All members of our community are expected to continuously learn about bias in the workplace and participate in initiatives to dismantle bias in all forms. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Legal Aid Society