Accountant

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Accountant to support a higher education or nonprofit organization with revenue-focused accounting needs in Sherman Oaks, California. This Long-term Contract position will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, applying appropriate revenue recognition practices, and supporting compliance with funding and reporting requirements. The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in reconciliations, journal entries, and fund-based accounting, along with the ability to work effectively across multiple business areas.

Responsibilities:
• Record and maintain accounting entries tied to revenue activity, including receivables, deferrals, and related general ledger transactions.
• Review revenue balances on a regular basis, research variances, and resolve discrepancies to keep financial data accurate and current.
• Evaluate multiple income sources such as tuition, grants, donor funding, service revenue, contracts, and fees to ensure proper accounting treatment.
• Apply relevant accounting guidance and internal policies to determine the correct timing and classification of recognized revenue.
• Track restricted and unrestricted funding activity while ensuring compliance with donor intent, grant terms, and organizational reporting standards.
• Contribute to monthly, quarterly, and annual close activities by preparing reconciliations, schedules, and supporting revenue documentation.
• Develop audit-ready workpapers and provide financial support materials for internal reviews, external audits, and compliance reporting.
• Collaborate with departments such as development, sponsored programs, student finance, and grants teams to improve the accuracy and completeness of revenue reporting.
• Examine agreements and supporting documents to determine how grants, contracts, and contributions should be recorded and monitored.
• Strengthen internal controls and recommend process improvements that increase efficiency and consistency across revenue accounting activities.• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years of accounting experience, with preference for work in nonprofit, higher education, or fund accounting settings.
• Solid understanding of revenue recognition concepts and financial reporting principles.
• Hands-on experience with journal entries, general ledger activity, accounts receivable, and account reconciliations.
• Familiarity with grants, contributions, deferred revenue, and other revenue-related accounting transactions.
• Advanced Excel capabilities and comfort working within accounting or enterprise financial systems.
• Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills with the ability to partner across departments.