Staff Accountant

Column Technical Services is seeking a skilled Staff Accountant who's ready to take ownership of federal grant accounting and play a key role in ensuring the integrity of the federally funded programs within a reputable Chicago based nonprofit. In this role you'll shape financial oversight, strengthen compliance, and drive accurate, timely reporting that directly supports the customer's mission. If you bring accounting experience, sharp analytical skills, and a solid understanding of federal grant regulations, we'd love to connect and explore whether this opportunity is the right next step in your career.


The Staff Accountant is responsible for ensuring accurate tracking of grant activity, adherence to Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), and timely submission of financial reports and drawdown requests.


EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Grant Accounting & Compliance

• Maintain precise general ledger activity for all federal awards, including revenue recognition, expense monitoring, and cost allocation processes.
• Ensure alignment with Uniform Guidance, federal agency rules, and internal organizational policies.
• Review grant-related spending to confirm allowability, allocability, and reasonableness.
• Assist in preparing the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) and provide support for annual Single Audit requirements.

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Produce monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for internal teams and federal funding agencies.
• Support the preparation of drawdown submissions and reconcile drawdown activity with the general ledger.
• Track grant budgets, analyze variances, and proactively communicate concerns to program and finance leadership.

Internal Controls & Documentation

• Maintain well-organized grant files, supporting documentation, and audit-ready records.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of internal controls related to grant compliance and accounting.
• Assist with updates to policies and procedures to ensure continued alignment with federal requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with program managers to provide financial insights and ensure proper stewardship of grant funds.
• Coordinate with Human Resources and other departments to validate cost allocations and supporting documentation.
• Respond to inquiries from internal and external auditors.

Job Requirements

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Required

• 2-4 years of accounting experience, including at least one year working with federal grants or restricted funding.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline.
• Advanced Excel proficiency (pivot tables, lookups, data validation).
• Knowledge of Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200).
• Strong understanding of GAAP and general ledger accounting.
• Experience with accounting systems such as NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, or comparable platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication abilities.
• Maintain a hybrid schedule with 3 days in-office days weekly.

Preferred

• Experience supporting Single Audits.
• Background in nonprofit, higher education, healthcare, or other federally funded environments.
• Familiarity with federal grant systems (e.g., PMS).

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail: Produces accurate financial records and compliance documentation.
• Problem-Solving: Identifies issues and recommends effective solutions.
• Time Management: Handles multiple grants and deadlines efficiently.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams and program staff.
• Integrity: Upholds confidentiality and ethical accounting standards.